No new Legionella cases in Basel – five patients remain in hospital

Background: What are Legionella?

In Switzerland and in neighbouring countries, outbreaks are closely monitored. Comparable incidents have been reported in recent years from Austria (Linz, Salzburg area) and from Liechtenstein, where similarly high infection numbers were in some cases registered.

Specialists such as Guido Hinterberger and Michael Studnicka are among the well-known voices in the region when it comes to providing information about Legionella risks. They emphasise that operators of large water systems must ensure regular sampling and temperature checks in order to prevent the pathogens from multiplying.

The cantonal Health Department (GD) of Basel is, according to its own statements, coordinating the further monitoring and is in contact with hospitals as well as with the drinking-water supply. Residents have been informed of the applicable precautionary measures.

Measures and investigations

Legionnaires' disease is a notifiable infectious disease. When several illnesses occur within a short period of time, this is referred to as an outbreak – a scenario that is now being dealt with in Basel.

The incubation period is typically two to ten days. Symptoms include high fever, cough, shortness of breath, and chills. People with a weakened immune system, older people, and smokers have an elevated risk of a severe course.

As the authorities further announced, the investigations into the possible source of infection are ongoing. Larger facilities in which Legionella-containing aerosols can be produced are being examined in particular.

If a specific source can be identified, measures such as disinfection, a temporary shutdown of the affected facilities, or an adjustment of water temperatures are envisaged under the relevant regulations.

The responsible authorities are asking persons with corresponding symptoms to seek medical treatment immediately and to point out the possible connection with the outbreak, so that the pathogens can be specifically tested.