A recent study found a 113% increase in confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the European Union since 2005.
- Confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the European Union increased from 4,693 cases in 2005 to 10,004 cases in 2021, an increase of 113%.
- Climate change could be to blame for the increase in cases.
- The bacteria can also be found in air conditioning systems.
This serious infection, also known as Legionnaires’ disease, is caused by the bacteria Legionella pneumophila and can lead to life-threatening pneumonia. Researchers have identified several risk factorsincluding age, pre-existing lung diseases and environmental conditions favorable to the multiplication of the bacteria.
The influence of the respiratory tract microbiome on the severity of bacterial pneumonia
According to the researchers, the composition of the microbiome, the quantity of pathogens present and clinical interventions can influence the course of the disease. Additionally, they found that organisms such as fungi, archaea and protozoa could contribute to the progression of pneumonia. These results highlight the importance of maintaining a healthy balance of the microbiome and taking these factors into account in the medical monitoring of patients.
Severe pneumonia caused by Legionella pneumophila
It is transmitted to humans through the inhalation of contaminated aerosols, generally coming from artificial water sources such as showers, thermal baths or air conditioning systems. This bacteria can cause severe pneumonia, known as Legionnaires’ disease. The mortality rate for Legionnaires’ disease varies from 5% to 40% depending on the clinical context and the region where the contamination occurs.
Risk factors and the increase in cases of Legionnaires’ disease in Europe
Several risk factors have been identified regarding Legionnaires’ disease. Among them, we find old age, pre-existing lung diseases, smoking and immunosuppression. Additionally, about two-thirds of reported cases are men. These factors can make individuals more vulnerable to infection. Since 2005, confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the European Union have increased significantly, from 4,693 cases to 10,004 cases in 2021, an increase of 113%. This increase could be linked to climate change, with higher water temperatures and flooding favoring the multiplication of the bacteria and its access to places where humans live. It is therefore crucial to strengthen surveillance and prevention measures to protect the population from this potentially fatal disease.
