Legionnaires' Disease

05 May 2000

Australia has recently reported an outbreak of Legionnaires' Disease. So far, sixty-six persons ranging from 26 to 89 years of age, are reported to have been infected, with nine in critical condition and two deaths. Epidemiological evidence has established a strong link with the Melbourne Aquarium as all but one are known to have visited the aquarium between 11 April and 25 April 2000.

We would like to assure the public that Legionnaires' disease is not spread from person to person. So, there is no concern that the outbreak in Australia can spread to Singapore. However, anyone who has visited the Melbourne Aquarium during April this year and has developed the symptoms described below should seek medical attention immediately.

Legionnaires' disease is caused by a bacterium, Legionella pneumophila. Infection is acquired through the inhalation of water droplets contaminated by the bacteria. The usual sources of infection are poorly maintained cooling towers and air conditioning systems although showers, spa baths and jacuzzis have been implicated. The illness can affect people of all ages but is most common among middle-aged and older people and those who are heavy smokers and drinkers, diabetics, people with chronic lung diseases or have impaired immunity.

Legionnaires' disease is a rare form of pneumonia (an infection of the lungs). Early symptoms are similar to flu, and include headache, fever, chills, muscle aches and a dry cough. This is followed by shortness of breath as pneumonia develops. The onset of symptoms can be delayed up to ten days after exposure to the bacteria. Diarrhoea, mental confusion and kidney failure may also occur. Legionnaires' disease can be treated effectively with antibiotics.

All medical practitioners are advised to be vigilant and have a high index of suspicion for the disease in patients who have visited the Melbourne Aquarium and have developed signs and symptoms consistent with Legionnaires' disease. Such patients should be referred to the Communicable Disease Centre, Tan Tock Seng Hospital for further management.

Doctors are reminded to report all cases of confirmed and suspected Legionnaires' disease to the Ministry of the Environment so as to facilitate epidemiological investigation and enable control measures to be taken quickly. Please notify all cases of Legionnaires' disease immediately to:

The Commissioner of Public Health

c/o Quarantine and Epidemiology Department

Ministry of the Environment

Environment Building #22-00

40 Scotts Road, Singapore 228231

Tel: 7319760, 7319761, 7319758, Fax: 7348287