Hospital Post Europe, jan 2007:p.29
Abstract:

Among waterborne pathogens, Legionella pneumophila is one of the most threatening bacteria: One of the unique aspects of Legionnaires? disease is the significant frequency at which it is misdiagnosed as pneumonia, even in hospitalized patients. This is due to the fact that Legionella infections are not often considered in the differential diagnosis. Significant improvements can be anticipated, when a repeated microbiological surveillance of the hospital water distribution system is conducted. ?The knowledge of the environmental surveillance in the hospital increases the index of suspicion in physicians and subsequently leads to a higher rate of diagnosed cases of hospital acquired Legionnaires? disease?, says Miquel Sabria, professor of Medicine at the Autonomous University of Barcelona (Spain).
Neubacher, Daniel