Did you know the incidence of reported U.S. Legionnaires’ disease cases grew by nearly 9 times from 2000 to 2018? Nearly 10,000 cases were reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in 2018—the most cases ever reported. However, even this high number is likely an underestimate because many cases do not get recognized or diagnosed. Since more cases of Legionnaires’ disease are typically reported in the summer months, now is the time to make sure you have the latest information on diagnosing and preventing this disease, which is fatal for about 10% of those who get it.
Clinicians, healthcare facility leadership, public health officials, and building owners can all play a role in protecting people from Legionnaires’ disease, caused by Legionella bacteria.