Threat LensBiologicalItaly reports Legionella risk increase in Milan

Italy reports Legionella risk increase in Milan

Type of event:
Disease/Outbreak, Public Health

Victims

1

Wounded

28

Date

July 9, 2024

What happened

Recently, 28 cases of Legionella infection have been reported in the Milan province, resulting in one death. The deceased was a 71-year-old woman who suffered from multiple complications. These cases emerged in the towns of Corsico and Buccinasco. Health authorities are investigating the Legionella outbreak’s origins by testing water samples from the area’s water systems, with results anticipated soon. Traces of Legionella were found in two cooling towers; however, one plant began operation post-outbreak, and the other was promptly treated. Currently, the epidemic’s source remains unidentified. Meanwhile, the health authorities in Milan have issued public guidelines to prevent infections that arise from inhaling small droplets of contaminated water, noting that these infections do not spread from person to person.

Where it happened

Main sources