Source of Legionnaires’ infection at Nicosia clinic expected to be identified by Thursday

Nicosia, Cyprus. Investigators expect to establish by Thursday the source of a Legionnaires’ disease infection involving a baby at a private Nicosia clinic, microbiologist Michalis Mendris said on Monday. The infant is understood to remain critically ill but stable at Makarios children’s hospital.

Water systems under investigation

Speaking to the Cyprus News agency, Mendris said inquiries started as soon as the case was identified. Investigators checked the water systems at the infant’s home and at the clinic, where the baby was receiving treatment when diagnosed.

An elevated concentration of the bacterium responsible for the disease was detected in the clinic’s water system at nearly the same time as the diagnosis, he said.

Mendris explained that bacterial growth could have several causes, including seasonal stagnation within the system or unsuitable water temperatures.

Admissions halted and families notified

The clinic has stopped admitting patients, Mendris said, but continues its remaining activities while applying appropriate precautions for managing its water system.

Other babies receiving care there were removed last Friday following the first infant’s diagnosis. Their families were told which symptoms could indicate infection, he added.

Mendris said no additional cases had been reported so far.

How the infection spreads

The United Kingdom’s national health service describes Legionnaires’ disease as an uncommon but very serious lung infection acquired by breathing in water droplets from sources such as air-conditioning equipment or hot tubs.

Its guidance explains that transmission between people is not typical. Infection instead occurs through inhaling droplets containing the bacteria, which generally grow in artificial water systems.