Legionellosis (legionnaire's disease) in Italy: Milan area

12 Aug 2024

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control ECDC reports an ongoing outbreak of legionellosis (legionnaire's disease) in the Milan area. From 11 April 2024 to 8 August 2024, there have been  49 confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease, including 3 deaths.

Forty-four cases have been recorded in the municipality of Corsico and 5 from the municipality of Buccinasco, both of which are in the Milan area.

Legionnaires' disease is an infection caused by bacteria. It is spread by breathing in bacteria which is found in water spray or tiny water droplets in the air. Outbreaks have been linked to heating or cooling systems, showers, hot tubs, fountains and swimming pools.

The risk from the infection is greatest to smokers, older people, those with a chronic lung condition and those with a weakened immune system. There is no vaccine against Legionnaires' disease.

Advice to travellers

• Make sure you flush through showers with hot water in your accommodation if they have not been used recently and before you use them for the first time.
• Seek medical advice quickly if you develop a flu-like illness with a high temperature (fever), cough or shortness of breath during your stay or for up to two weeks after return home. You should inform any healthcare professionals that you may have been exposed to Legionnaires' disease and mention the area you visited.

For further information, see the Legionnaires' Disease page.