The lockdown has led to optimal conditions for the growth of Legionella bacteria in many facilities, which could result in a significant increase in Legionnaires’ disease infections in 2021. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has warned that the prolonged closure of hotels, sports facilities, and parts of nursing homes and hospitals can lead to a significant increase in Legionella growth in water systems. As these facilities gradually reopen, there is a possibility of increased cases of Legionnaires’ disease. Experts predict that there will be a higher number of infections and deaths in 2021 compared to previous years.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. In normal years, about 30,000 people in Germany contract Legionnaires’ disease, with 15% of cases resulting in death. However, due to the optimal conditions for Legionella growth during the lockdown, experts predict that there will be a significant increase in infections and deaths in 2021. Legionella bacteria can thrive in water systems at temperatures between 20 and 45 degrees Celsius, and the prolonged closure of water systems during the lockdown has created ideal conditions for their growth.
Experts recommend that facility operators take responsibility for Legionella prevention by flushing all pipes with water at a temperature of at least 55 degrees Celsius before reopening. Guests in hotels and holiday homes can also protect themselves by using a Legionella filter while showering. Additionally, experts recommend testing water systems for Legionella and taking disinfection and remediation measures if necessary. However, many facilities avoid testing due to the associated costs and the obligation to report any breaches of legal limits to health authorities.
In conclusion, the lockdown has created optimal conditions for the growth of Legionella bacteria, which could lead to a significant increase in Legionnaires’ disease infections and deaths in 2021. Facility operators must take responsibility for Legionella prevention by flushing pipes and testing water systems for Legionella. Guests can also protect themselves by using Legionella filters while showering.
