“Legionaires’ disease” in Poland: what are the symptoms and what do the Ministry of Health say about the risk of an outbreak in Ukraine
Since July 30, an outbreak of “legionnaires’ disease” has been recorded in the Polish city of Rzeszów, not far from the Ukrainian border. This is an infectious disease that affects the lungs. Currently, 166 cases of infection and 23 deaths are known. The Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine told about the threat of an outbreak of legionellosis in Ukraine. “Our disease control and prevention centers have PCR systems that allow to diagnose (legionellosis – ed.) in case there are similar symptoms. Then there is a clear mechanism of how to carry out an epidural investigation and what measures to take,” the minister of defense commented on the possible risks health Viktor Lyashko. Lyashko noted that “legionnaires’ disease” spreads where there is moisture. Outbreaks often occur in the summer and are associated with split systems in hotels, shopping centers, etc. At the same time, the minister expressed hope that there will be no legionellosis in Ukraine. What is Legionnaires’ disease? Photo: AlexLipa/Depositphotos Legionnaires’ disease is an infectious inflammation of the lungs. It is caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila, which most often reproduces in split systems and water supply systems. You can get legionellosis by inhaling drops of contaminated water. Outbreaks of the disease occurred due to: air conditioners; swimming pools; jacuzzi and hydromassage baths; water heaters; fountains; drinking water At the same time, some cases of the disease were recorded after contact with contaminated soil. Symptoms of legionellosis Photo: photographee.eu/Depositphotos The disease develops 2-10 days after bacteria enter the body. The following symptoms occur most often: headache; muscle pain; fever; cough, which may produce mucus or blood; dyspnea; chest pain; gastrointestinal disorders – nausea, vomiting and diarrhea; confusion or other mental changes. Legionnaires’ disease most often affects the lungs, but it can also cause inflammation in other organs, including the heart. Pontiac fever is a mild form of legionellosis. It can cause fever, chills, headache and muscle pain, but does not affect the lungs. This variant of the disease lasts for 2-5 days. We will remind you that a deadly disease broke out in a city in Poland that is important for helping Ukraine. Read also: The probability of a measles outbreak this year is very high: why is it dangerous Author: Alyona Pavlyuk
Original Source Link
