Legionellosis in Poland in 2012

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the article is to assess the epidemiological situation of legionellosis in Poland in 2012 in comparison to the preceding years.

Material and methods: The analysis of epidemiological situation was based on the data published in the annual bulletin: "Infectious diseases and poisonings in Poland in 2012" and its prior versions as well as the legionellosis case reports sent to the Department of Epidemiology of NIPH-NIH.

Results: In Poland, all cases of legionellosis, including Legionnaires' disease - a form of disease accompanied by pneumonia and mild, influenza-like form of infection - Pontiac fever are routinely reported to the surveillance. In 2012, a total of 10 legionellosis cases were reported (8 cases of Legionnaires' disease and 2 cases of Pontiac fever); the incidence was 0.026 per 100 000 population which compared to the previous year and median incidence for 2006-2010 was 45% and 65% lower, respectively. The infections were reported in 6 provinces. The incidence in males (0.03 per 100 000) was slightly higher compared to females (0.02). No legionellosis outbreaks were registered - all infections were of sporadic nature. All cases were hospitalized. The sanitary inspection reported two fatal cases over the age of 60. Of these infections, seven were developed in the country, including one hospital- and one sanatorium-acquired infection. Two infections were associated with travels abroad (one to Spain and one to Egypt) and one infection occurred in driver while transporting the goods to the Netherlands.

Conclusions: In 2012, no changes of fundamental features of legionellosis epidemiological situation in Poland were observed. It is recommended to enhance the surveillance for legionellosis, with emphasis on conducting environmental investigation in areas where infections have occurred.

Keywords: 2012; Legionella sp.; Legionnaires’ disease; Poland; atypical pneumonia; epidemiology; infectious diseases; legionellosis.