Legionella outbreak in Rimini hospital

Four patients admitted to the hospital in Rimini have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially fatal form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria. The first case was reported on 28 August, and the last on 10 September. The patients contracted the infection from the bacteria present in the water supply of several hospital departments. Immediately following the diagnostic findings, the management initiated a comprehensive control programme for the water distribution network. This involved the implementation of rigorous filtration procedures for Legionella at all terminal points of the structure. A screening and monitoring of patients has also been initiated, and conducted in parallel to the survey of the distribution network. Its purpose is to identify any further symptoms in other patients, according to information provided by hospital sources. Following an ad hoc technical meeting convened at the behest of the Public Health and Hygiene Department, headed by Dr Elizabeth Bakken, the technical office has initiated a protocol for aggressive and high-intensity treatment.