Legionnaires' disease (Legion fever) is a pneumonia-like lung infection that has killed seven individuals in Portugal. According to health officials, the number of infections has reached 311 as of November 13, 2014. The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its statement to consider the outbreak a major public health emergency.
On November 18, 2014, fresh seven cases of the disease were reported and one of them, a man in his 50s died in the Sandwell General Hospital in the West Midlands.
The affected community is Vila Franca de Xira which is located northeast of Lisbon, the national capital of Portugal. However, the evidence of the possible source of the disease is yet to be determined by WHO and Portuguese health officials.
Legionnaire's disease is caused by any species of Gram-negative aerobic bacteria belonging to the genus Legionella. It is a severe form of Pneumonia that is not transmitted from person to person. Humans can be infected through inhalation of the bacteria. Susceptible individuals to the disease are those who have low immunity, smokers, and older adults.
The illness is similar to a typical flu that is why most people infected with it do not seek medical attention and help unless it's already severe. It is most dangerous to elderly people especially those with existing health conditions.
Reports say that acquisition of the bacteria is through inhaling water laced with the bacteria. The media reports that the outbreak originated in a local cooling tower. Water supply systems, air conditioning units and even cooling towers are good grounds for bacterial proliferation.
Due to precautionary measures, fountains and cooling towers in the outbreak areas were closed. Furthermore, chlorine concentration in the water supplies was increased. Meanwhile, the Directorate-General for Health of Portugal has issued the following precautionary recommendations to the public including avoiding bathing in showers, Jacuzzi's and even whirlpools, disinfection of shower heads and set the water temperature to more than 75ºC.