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Graham FF, Harte DJG, Baker MG. Environmental Investigation and Surveillance for Legionella in Aotearoa New Zealand, 2000-2020. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:156. [PMID: 36997742 PMCID: PMC10063469 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03261-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
The reported rate of legionellosis is increasing in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) with most cases community-acquired, sporadic (non-outbreak) and without an identifiable source. This analysis used two datasets to describe the environmental sources that contribute to Legionella in NZ, based on linkages with outbreaks and sporadic clinical cases, and analysis of environmental testing data. These findings highlight the need for enhanced environmental investigation of clinical cases and outbreaks. There is also a need for systematic surveillance testing of high-risk source environments to support more rigorous controls to prevent legionellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances F Graham
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, P. O. 7343, Wellington South, 6242, New Zealand.
| | - David J G Harte
- ESR, Legionella Reference Laboratory, Health Programme, Kenepuru Science Centre, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Michael G Baker
- Department of Public Health, University of Otago, P. O. 7343, Wellington South, 6242, New Zealand
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2
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The Presence of Opportunistic Premise Plumbing Pathogens in Residential Buildings: A Literature Review. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14071129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Opportunistic premise plumbing pathogens (OPPP) are microorganisms that are native to the plumbing environment and that present an emerging infectious disease problem. They share characteristics, such as disinfectant resistance, thermal tolerance, and biofilm formation. The colonisation of domestic water systems presents an elevated health risk for immune-compromised individuals who receive healthcare at home. The literature that has identified the previously described OPPPs (Aeromonas spp., Acinetobacter spp., Helicobacter spp., Legionella spp., Methylobacterium spp., Mycobacteria spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Stenotrophomonas spp.) in residential drinking water systems were systematically reviewed. By applying the Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines, 214 studies were identified from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, which included 30 clinical case investigations. Tap components and showerheads were the most frequently identified sources of OPPPs. Sixty-four of these studies detected additional clinically relevant pathogens that are not classified as OPPPs in these reservoirs. There was considerable variation in the detection methods, which included traditional culturing and molecular approaches. These identified studies demonstrate that the current drinking water treatment methods are ineffective against many waterborne pathogens. It is critical that, as at-home healthcare services continue to be promoted, we understand the emergent risks that are posed by OPPPs in residential drinking water. Future research is needed in order to provide consistent data on the prevalence of OPPPs in residential water, and on the incidence of waterborne homecare-associated infections. This will enable the identification of the contributing risk factors, and the development of effective controls.
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Brunello A, Civilini M, De Martin S, Felice A, Franchi M, Iacumin L, Saccomanno N, Vitacolonna N. Machine learning-assisted environmental surveillance of Legionella: A retrospective observational study in Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of Italy in the period 2002–2019. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2021.100803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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4
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Gallè F, Sabella EA, Da Molin G, Parisi EA, Liguori G, Montagna MT, De Giglio O, Tondini L, Orsi GB, Napoli C. Physical Activity in Older Adults: An Investigation in a Metropolitan Area of Southern Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17031034. [PMID: 32041269 PMCID: PMC7037864 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17031034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) and exercise are fundamental to maintaining health in older adults. World Health Organization guidelines state that older adults should practice at least 150 min/week of moderate/vigorous intensity PA to obtain health benefits. We assessed PA levels among older adults in southern Italy and evaluated possible associated determinants. The study was carried out between September and November 2019 in the metropolitan area of Bari. We collected information from participants over 65 years using a self-administered questionnaire. We investigated associations between sociodemographic characteristics, health conditions, and inactivity/PA levels. A total of 383 individuals completed the questionnaire. Mean body mass index indicated that 45.4% of participants were overweight. Mean time spent in PA was 476.2 ± 297.8 min/week, with women reporting lower levels than men (370.8 ± 210 vs. 555.2 ± 334.3 min/week, p = 0.08). Weekly sitting time was positively related to age. Attending religious or recreational activities was related to moderate PA. Educational level was positively associated with PA while dog ownership represented an obstacle to achieving recommended PA levels in our population. Participants generally met the recommended levels of PA, especially men; the educational level was the main determinant. Interventions aimed at promoting PA among older adults with lower education levels and women are needed in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Gallè
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via Medina n. 40, 80133 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (L.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Elita Anna Sabella
- Inter-University Research Centre “Population, Environment and Health”, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Umberto I, 1, 70121 Bari, Italy; (E.A.S.); (G.D.M.)
| | - Giovanna Da Molin
- Inter-University Research Centre “Population, Environment and Health”, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Umberto I, 1, 70121 Bari, Italy; (E.A.S.); (G.D.M.)
| | - Eduardo Alfonso Parisi
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035/1039, 00189 Rome, Italy; (E.A.P.); (C.N.)
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via Medina n. 40, 80133 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (L.T.)
| | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.T.M.); (O.D.G.)
| | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.T.M.); (O.D.G.)
| | - Luca Tondini
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via Medina n. 40, 80133 Naples, Italy; (G.L.); (L.T.)
| | - Giovanni Battista Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035/1039, 00189 Rome, Italy; (E.A.P.); (C.N.)
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5
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De Giglio O, Fasano F, Diella G, Lopuzzo M, Napoli C, Apollonio F, Brigida S, Calia C, Campanale C, Marzella A, Pousis C, Rutigliano S, Triggiano F, Caggiano G, Montagna MT. Legionella and legionellosis in touristic-recreational facilities: Influence of climate factors and geostatistical analysis in Southern Italy (2001-2017). ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 178:108721. [PMID: 31541805 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Legionella is the causative agent of Legionnaires' disease, a flu-like illness normally acquired following inhalation or aspiration of contaminated water aerosols. Our recent studies revealed that climatic parameters can increase the number of reported cases of community-acquired Legionnaires' disease. Here, we evaluated the presence of Legionella in water networks and the distribution of Legionnaires' disease cases associated with touristic-recreational facilities in the Apulia region (southern Italy) during the period 2001-2017 using geostatistical and climatic analyses. Geostatistical analysis data revealed that the area with the highest concentration of Legionella in water systems also had the greatest number of cases of Legionnaires' disease associated with touristic-recreational facilities. Climatic analysis showed that higher daily temperature excursion (difference between maximum and minimum temperature) on the day of sampling was more often associated with Legionella-positive samples than Legionella-negative samples. In addition, our data highlighted an increased risk of Legionnaires' disease with increases in precipitation and average temperature and with decreases in daily temperature excursion (difference between maximum and minimum temperature over the course of 24 h in the days of incubation period of disease) and minimum temperature. Healthcare professionals should be aware of this phenomenon and be particularly vigilant for cases of community-acquired pneumonia during such climatic conditions and among the tourist population. The innovative geo-statistical approach used in this study could be applied in other contexts when evaluating the effects of climatic conditions on the incidence of Legionella infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Fasano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Giusy Diella
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Marco Lopuzzo
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Via di Grottarossa 1035/1039, 00189, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Apollonio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Silvia Brigida
- Water Research Institute-Italian National Research Council, Bari, Italy.
| | - Carla Calia
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Carmen Campanale
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Angelo Marzella
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Chrysovalentinos Pousis
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Serafina Rutigliano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Francesco Triggiano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Caggiano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
| | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124, Bari, Italy.
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Laganà P, Facciolà A, Palermo R, Delia S. Environmental Surveillance of Legionellosis within an Italian University Hospital-Results of 15 Years of Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E1103. [PMID: 30925660 PMCID: PMC6480113 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16071103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Legionnaires' disease is normally acquired by inhalation of legionellae from a contaminated environmental source. Water systems of large and old buildings, such as hospitals, can be contaminated with legionellae and therefore represent a potential risk for the hospital population. In this study, we demonstrated the constant presence of Legionella in water samples from the water system of a large university hospital in Messina (Sicily, Italy) consisting of 11 separate pavilions during a period of 15 years (2004⁻2018). In total, 1346 hot water samples were collected between January 2004 and December 2018. During this period, to recover Legionella spp. from water samples, the standard procedures reported by the 2000 Italian Guidelines were adopted; from May 2015 to 2018 Italian Guidelines revised in 2015 (ISS, 2015) were used. Most water samples (72%) were positive to L. pneumophila serogroups 2⁻14, whereas L. pneumophila serogroup 1 accounted for 18% and non-Legionellapneumophila spp. Accounted for 15%. Most of the positive samples were found in the buildings where the following critical wards are situated: (Intensive Care Unit) ICU, Neurosurgery, Surgeries, Pneumology, and Neonatal Intensive Unit Care. This study highlights the importance of the continuous monitoring of hospital water samples to prevent the potential risk of nosocomial legionellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasqualina Laganà
- Regional Reference Laboratory of Clinical and Environmental Surveillance of Legionellosis, Branch of Messina, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Torre Biologica 3p, AOU 'G. Martino, Via C. Valeria, s.n.c., 98125 Messina, Italy.
| | - Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy.
| | - Roberta Palermo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy.
| | - Santi Delia
- Regional Reference Laboratory of Clinical and Environmental Surveillance of Legionellosis, Branch of Messina, Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Torre Biologica 3p, AOU 'G. Martino, Via C. Valeria, s.n.c., 98125 Messina, Italy.
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De Giglio O, Napoli C, Apollonio F, Brigida S, Marzella A, Diella G, Calia C, Scrascia M, Pacifico C, Pazzani C, Uricchio VF, Montagna MT. Occurrence of Legionella in groundwater used for sprinkler irrigation in Southern Italy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 170:215-221. [PMID: 30594053 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.12.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Legionellae are opportunistic bacteria that cause various conditions after exposure to contaminated aerosols, ranging from a serious type of pneumonia to a mild case of an influenza-like illness. Despite the risks of exposure, little is known about the occurrence of Legionella in natural environments and, even though studies have shown that there is a potential risk of transmission via inhalation, it does not have to be detected in groundwater that is used for irrigation. The culture methods traditionally used to detect Legionella have several limits that can be partly solved by applying molecular techniques. Samples from 177 wells in Apulia, Southern Italy, were collected twice, in winter and in summer, and analyzed. When compared with the guidelines, 145 (81.9%) of the sampled wells were suitable for irrigation use. The culture-based method highlighted the presence of different species and serogroups of Legionella in 31 (21.2%) of the 145 wells that were shown to be suitable for irrigation use. A greater number of wells returned positive results for Legionella in summer than in winter (p = 0.023), and the median concentrations were mostly higher in summer (500 CFU/L) than in winter (300 CFU/L). The median temperature in the Legionella positive well waters was significantly higher than that in the negative ones, both in winter and in summer (p < 0.001). Using molecular techniques, Legionella non-pneumophila was found in 37 of the 114 wells earlier detected as suitable for irrigation use but negative for Legionella by the culture-based methods. The distribution of Legionella differ significantly in porous aquifers compared to the karst-fissured ones both with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) (p = 0.0004) and viable cells by propidium monoazide (PMA-qPCR) (p = 0.0000). Legionella concentrations were weakly correlated with temperature of water both with qPCR (ρ = 0.47, p = 0.0033) and PMA-qPCR (ρ = 0.41, p = 0.0126). Our data suggest that water that aerosolizes when sprinkled on plants represents a potential source of Legionellosis, with a higher risk from exposure in summer. On a practical level, this finding is important for workers (farmers and gardeners) who are in contact with waters used for irrigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical and Surgical sciences and translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Apollonio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Silvia Brigida
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council, Bari, Italy.
| | - Angelo Marzella
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Giusy Diella
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Carla Calia
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Maria Scrascia
- Department of Biology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | - Claudia Pacifico
- Centre of Biostatistics for Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | - Carlo Pazzani
- Department of Biology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
| | | | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy.
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Khaledi A, Esmaeili SA, Vazini H, Karami P, Bahrami A, Sahebkar A. Evaluation of the prevalence of Legionella pneumophila in Iranian clinical samples: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Microb Pathog 2019; 129:93-98. [PMID: 30738817 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2017] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Legionella pneumophila is the main cause for community-acquired pneumonia especially in hospital environments. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we evaluated the prevalence of L. pneumophila in clinical samples obtained from Iranian patients. METHODS The studies reporting L. pneumophila prevalence in Iranian clinical samples that were published between January 2000 and July 2016 were recruited. Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software (version 3.3.070) was used for quantitative data analysis. Because of high heterogeneity between the studies according to the Cochrane Q and I2 statistics, a random-effects model was used for meta-analysis. RESULTS Sixteen studies encompassing 1956 subjects were included in the meta-analysis. The overall prevalence of L. pneumophila was 9.6% in clinical samples obtained from the Iranian patients. The age spectrum ranged from 6 months to 80 years old. Dyspnea and cough comprised the most common clinical manifestations. In the subgroup analysis, the prevalence of L. pneumophila was higher in studies with sample size ≤100 (12.9%) in comparison with studies with sample size >100 (8.4%). In addition, the prevalence of L. pneumophila was higher in the years 2009-2016 (9.2%) compared with 2000-2008 (0.7%). CONCLUSION L. pneumophila is a major cause of community- and hospital-acquired pneumonia. It is of pivotal importance to implement sensitive and reliable molecular and culture-based techniques to detect and control this infection in healthcare environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azad Khaledi
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, IR, Iran
| | - Seyed-Alireza Esmaeili
- Immunology Research Center, Bu-Ali Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Immunology Department, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Vazini
- Nursing Department Basic Sciences Faculty, Hamedan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Pezhman Karami
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, IR, Iran
| | - Afsane Bahrami
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical of Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical of Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical of Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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9
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Montagna MT, De Giglio O, Napoli C, Diella G, Rutigliano S, Agodi A, Auxilia F, Baldovin T, Bisetto F, Arnoldo L, Brusaferro S, Busetti M, Calagreti G, Casini B, Cristina ML, Di Luzio R, Fiorio M, Formoso M, Liguori G, Martini E, Molino A, Mondello P, Mura I, Novati R, Orsi GB, Patroni A, Poli A, Privitera G, Ripabelli G, Rocchetti A, Rose F, Sarti M, Savini S, Silvestri A, Sodano L, Spagnolo AM, Tardivo S, Teti V, Torregrossa MV, Torri E, Veronesi L, Zarrilli R, Pacifico C, Goglio A, Moro M, Pasquarella C. Control and prevention measures for legionellosis in hospitals: A cross-sectional survey in Italy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 166:55-60. [PMID: 29864633 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Risk assessment, environmental monitoring, and the disinfection of water systems are the key elements in preventing legionellosis risk. The Italian Study Group of Hospital Hygiene of the Italian Society of Hygiene, Preventive Medicine, and Public Health and the Italian Multidisciplinary Society for the Prevention of Health Care-Associated Infections carried out a national cross-sectional survey to investigate the measures taken to prevent and control legionellosis in Italian hospitals. A multiple-choice questionnaire was developed, comprising 71 questions regarding hospital location, general characteristics, clinical and environmental surveillance, and control and preventive measures for legionellosis in 2015. Overall, 739 hospitals were enrolled from February to June 2017, and 178 anonymous questionnaires were correctly completed and evaluated (response rate: 24.1%). The survey was conducted using the SurveyMonkey® platform, and the data were analyzed using Stata 12 software. Of the participating hospitals, 63.2% reported at least one case of legionellosis, of which 28.2% were of proven nosocomial origin. The highest case numbers were reported in the Northern Italy, in hospitals with a pavilion structure or cooling towers, and in hospitals with higher numbers of beds, wards and operating theaters. Laboratory diagnosis was performed using urinary antigen testing alone (31.9%), both urinary antigen testing and single antibody titer (17.8%), or with seroconversion also added (21.5%). Culture-based or molecular investigations were performed in 28.8% and 22.1% of the clinical specimens, respectively. The water systems were routinely tested for Legionella in 97.4% of the hospitals, 62% of which detected a positive result (> 1000 cfu/L). Legionella pneumophila serogroup 2-15 was the most frequently isolated species (58.4%). The most common control measures were the disinfection of the water system (73.7%), mostly through thermal shock (37.4%) and chlorine dioxide (34.4%), and the replacement (69.7%) or cleaning (70.4%) of faucets and showerheads. A dedicated multidisciplinary team was present in 52.8% of the hospitals, and 73% of the hospitals performed risk assessment. Targeted training courses were organized in 36.5% of the hospitals, involving nurses (30.7%), physicians (28.8%), biologists (21.5%), technicians (26.4%), and cleaners (11%). Control and prevention measures for legionellosis are present in Italian hospitals, but some critical aspects should be improved. More appropriate risk assessment is necessary, especially in large facilities with a high number of hospitalizations. Moreover, more sensitive diagnostic tests should be used, and dedicated training courses should be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy.
| | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical and S urgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Roma, Square A. Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy
| | - Giusy Diella
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Serafina Rutigliano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Square G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies 'GF Ingrassia', University of Catania, Str. S. Sofia, 87, Comparto 10 Edificio C, 95123 Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Auxilia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano, Str. Pascal 36, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Tatjana Baldovin
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, University of Padova, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, Str. Loredan, 18.35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Francesco Bisetto
- Presidio Ospedaliero di Camposampiero, AULss6 Euganea Str. P. Cosma 1, 35012 Camposampiero, PD, Italy
| | - Luca Arnoldo
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Str. Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Silvio Brusaferro
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Str. Colugna 50, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marina Busetti
- University Hospital ASUITS, Microbiology Unit, Strada di Fiume, 447, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Gioia Calagreti
- Hospital "Alto Tevere", AUSL Umbria 1, Città di Castello, PG, Italy
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S. - Hygiene and Epidemiology Unit, University of Pisa, Str. S. Zeno 35-39, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Cristina
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Str. A. Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | | | | | - Maurizio Formoso
- Hospital "Miulli", Str. 127 km 4.1, Santeramo-Acquaviva delle Fonti, BA, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University "Parthenope", Napoli, Italy
| | - Enrica Martini
- AOU "Ospedali Riuniti", Str. Conca, 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Molino
- Hospital "Madonna delle Grazie", Contrada Cattedra Ambulante s.nc. 75100 Matera, Italy
| | | | - Ida Mura
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Battista Orsi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Disease, Sapienza University of Roma, Roma, Italy
| | - Andrea Patroni
- ASST Valcamonica, Str. Manzoni 142, 25040 Esine, BS, Italy
| | - Anna Poli
- Hospital "San Giovanni di Dio", Str. Torre Galli 3, 50143 Firenze, Italy
| | - Gaetano Privitera
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S. - Hygiene and Epidemiology Unit, University of Pisa, Str. S. Zeno 35-39, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Ripabelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "Vincenzo Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Andrea Rocchetti
- ASO "SS. Antonio, Biagio and C. Arrigo", Str. Venezia 17, 15121 Alessandria, Italy
| | | | - Mario Sarti
- Hospital "OCSAE", Str. Giardini 1355, Baggiovara, MO, Italy
| | - Sandra Savini
- AOU "Ospedali Riuniti", Str. Conca, 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Antonio Silvestri
- Hospital "San Camillo Forlanini", Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152 Roma, Italy
| | - Luisa Sodano
- Hospital "San Camillo Forlanini", Circonvallazione Gianicolense 87, 00152 Roma, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Spagnolo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genova, Str. A. Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefano Tardivo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Str. Le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | | | - Maria Valeria Torregrossa
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Str. Vespro, 133, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Emanuele Torri
- Department of Health ans Social Policy, Str. Gilli 4, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Licia Veronesi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Str. Volturno 39, Parma, Italy
| | - Raffaele Zarrilli
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli "Federico II", Str. S. Pansini, 5, Napoli, Italy
| | - Claudia Pacifico
- Centre of Biostatistics for Clinical Epidemiology, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Moro
- Hospital "San Raffaele", Str. Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italy
| | - Cesira Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Str. Volturno 39, Parma, Italy
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10
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Montagna MT, De Giglio O, Cristina ML, Napoli C, Pacifico C, Agodi A, Baldovin T, Casini B, Coniglio MA, D'Errico MM, Delia SA, Deriu MG, Guida M, Laganà P, Liguori G, Moro M, Mura I, Pennino F, Privitera G, Romano Spica V, Sembeni S, Spagnolo AM, Tardivo S, Torre I, Valeriani F, Albertini R, Pasquarella C. Evaluation of Legionella Air Contamination in Healthcare Facilities by Different Sampling Methods: An Italian Multicenter Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2017. [PMID: 28640202 PMCID: PMC5551108 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14070670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Healthcare facilities (HF) represent an at-risk environment for legionellosis transmission occurring after inhalation of contaminated aerosols. In general, the control of water is preferred to that of air because, to date, there are no standardized sampling protocols. Legionella air contamination was investigated in the bathrooms of 11 HF by active sampling (Surface Air System and Coriolis®μ) and passive sampling using settling plates. During the 8-hour sampling, hot tap water was sampled three times. All air samples were evaluated using culture-based methods, whereas liquid samples collected using the Coriolis®μ were also analyzed by real-time PCR. Legionella presence in the air and water was then compared by sequence-based typing (SBT) methods. Air contamination was found in four HF (36.4%) by at least one of the culturable methods. The culturable investigation by Coriolis®μ did not yield Legionella in any enrolled HF. However, molecular investigation using Coriolis®μ resulted in eight HF testing positive for Legionella in the air. Comparison of Legionella air and water contamination indicated that Legionella water concentration could be predictive of its presence in the air. Furthermore, a molecular study of 12 L. pneumophila strains confirmed a match between the Legionella strains from air and water samples by SBT for three out of four HF that tested positive for Legionella by at least one of the culturable methods. Overall, our study shows that Legionella air detection cannot replace water sampling because the absence of microorganisms from the air does not necessarily represent their absence from water; nevertheless, air sampling may provide useful information for risk assessment. The liquid impingement technique appears to have the greatest capacity for collecting airborne Legionella if combined with molecular investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy.
| | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy.
| | - Maria Luisa Cristina
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Roma, Via di Grottarossa 1035, 00189 Roma, Italy.
| | - Claudia Pacifico
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy.
| | - Antonella Agodi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Tatjana Baldovin
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Hygiene and Public Health Unit, University of Padova, Via Loredan 18, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 35/39, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Maria Anna Coniglio
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies "GF Ingrassia", University of Catania, Via Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy.
| | - Marcello Mario D'Errico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Polytechnic University of Marche, via Tronto, 10/a Torrette di Ancona, 60020 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Santi Antonino Delia
- Department of Biomedical Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via C.Valeria snc, 98125 Messina, Italy.
| | - Maria Grazia Deriu
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Via Padre Manzella 4, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Marco Guida
- Department of Biology, University of Napoli "Federico II", Via Cinthia 26, 80126 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Via C.Valeria snc, 98125 Messina, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University "Parthenope", Via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Matteo Moro
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Via Olgettina 60, 20132 Milano, Italy.
| | - Ida Mura
- Department of Biomedical Science-Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Via Padre Manzella 4, 07100 Sassari, Italy.
| | - Francesca Pennino
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli "Federico II", Via S.Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Gaetano Privitera
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno 35/39, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Romano Spica
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Public Health Unit, University of Roma "Foro Italico", P.zza Lauro De Bosis 6, 00135 Roma, Italy.
| | - Silvia Sembeni
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Strada le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Anna Maria Spagnolo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via Pastore 1, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Stefano Tardivo
- Department of Diagnostic and Public Health, University of Verona, Strada le Grazie 8, 37134 Verona, Italy.
| | - Ida Torre
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli "Federico II", Via S.Pansini 5, 80131 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Federica Valeriani
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, Public Health Unit, University of Roma "Foro Italico", P.zza Lauro De Bosis 6, 00135 Roma, Italy.
| | - Roberto Albertini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Medical Immunology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy.
| | - Cesira Pasquarella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Via Volturno 39, 43125 Parma, Italy.
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11
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Montagna MT, Cristina ML, De Giglio O, Spagnolo AM, Napoli C, Cannova L, Deriu MG, Delia SA, Giuliano A, Guida M, Laganà P, Liguori G, Mura I, Pennino F, Rossini A, Tardivo S, Torre I, Torregrossa MV, Villafrate MR, Albertini R, Pasquarella C. Serological and molecular identification of Legionella spp. isolated from water and surrounding air samples in Italian healthcare facilities. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2016; 146:47-50. [PMID: 26717079 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Legionella is an intracellular microorganism living in natural and artificial aquatic environments. Although its transmission to humans is linked to the inhalation of contaminated aerosols, there is no validated air sampling method for the control and prevention of the disease. The aim of the present study was to provide more information on the distribution of Legionella spp. in indoor environments and to determine whether the same Legionella strains are isolated from air and water samples. METHODS Ten healthcare facilities located in seven regions of Italy were enrolled. The serological typing of Legionella spp. from water samples and the surrounding air by active and passive sampling was assessed using polyvalent and monovalent antisera. Subsequently, the strains identified as Legionella pneumophila (Lpn) underwent molecular typing by sequence-based typing (SBT) using seven genes (flaA, pilE, asd, mip, mompS, proA, and neuA). The allelic profile number was assigned using the European Working Group for Legionella Infections-SBT database. RESULTS Lpn serogroup 6 was the most prevalent serogroup; it was found simultaneously in the air and water samples of three different healthcare facilities. In the remaining seven hospitals, Lpn serogroups 1, 6, 7, 9, and 12 were isolated exclusively from water samples. The molecular investigation showed that Lpn strains in the water and air samples of each positive healthcare facility had the same allelic profile. Strains, identified as sequence types (STs) 728 and ST 1638+ST 1324, were isolated in two respective healthcare facilities, and a new strain, identified as ST 1989, was obtained in one healthcare facility. CONCLUSION The application of the SBT method allowed to verify the homology among Legionella strains from water samples and the surrounding air. The results showed that the same Lpn strains were present in the air and water samples, and a new Legionella strain was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene Section, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
| | | | - Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene Section, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene Section, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Lucia Cannova
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion - Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Deriu
- Department of Biomedical Science - Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Santi Antonino Delia
- Department of Biomedical Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Ada Giuliano
- Department of Prevention Services of Hygiene and Public Health, ASL Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Marco Guida
- Department of Biology, University of Napoli "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical Science and Morphological and Functional Images, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Giorgio Liguori
- Department of Movement and Health Sciences, University "Parthenope", Napoli, Italy
| | - Ida Mura
- Department of Biomedical Science - Hygiene Section, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | | | | | - Stefano Tardivo
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Ida Torre
- Department of Public Health, University of Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Valeria Torregrossa
- Department of Sciences for Health Promotion - Hygiene Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Albertini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Parma, U.O. Medical Immunology, University Hospital of Parma, Italy
| | - Cesira Pasquarella
- Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translation Sciences, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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12
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De Giglio O, Napoli C, Lovero G, Diella G, Rutigliano S, Caggiano G, Montagna MT. Antibiotic susceptibility of Legionella pneumophila strains isolated from hospital water systems in Southern Italy. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2015; 142:586-90. [PMID: 26298602 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2015.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Revised: 08/12/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to describe the susceptibility of environmental strains of Legionella spp. to 10 antimicrobials commonly used for legionellosis therapy. A study of environmental strains could be useful to timely predict the onset of antibiotic resistance in the environment before it is evidenced in clinical specimens. METHODS The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 100 environmental Legionella pneumophila (Lpn) strains belonging to serogroups (sgs) 1, 6, 8, and 10 were tested using the E-test methodology on buffered charcoal yeast extract agar supplemented with α-ketoglutarate. The most frequent sgs were selected from those obtained during microbiological surveillance conducted in 2014 in a hospital in Southern Italy. The MICs were read after 2 days of incubation at 35 °C in a humidified atmosphere without CO2. RESULTS All isolates were inhibited by low concentrations of fluoroquinolones and macrolides. Rifampicin was the most active drug against the isolates in vitro. All Lpn isolates were inhibited by the following drugs (in decreasing order of their MICs): doxycycline>tigecycline>cefotaxime. The MICs of azithromycin, ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, moxifloxacin, and tigecycline were significantly lower for Lpn non-sg 1 than Lpn sg 1 isolates. CONCLUSIONS Susceptibility testing of Legionella strains to appropriate antibiotics should be performed often to evaluate the possible emergence of resistance, to improve the outcomes of patients, and to reduce the direct costs associated with hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osvalda De Giglio
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Hygiene Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Christian Napoli
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Hygiene Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Grazia Lovero
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Hygiene Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giusy Diella
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Hygiene Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Serafina Rutigliano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Hygiene Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Caggiano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Hygiene Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, Hygiene Section, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy.
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13
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Mercante JW, Winchell JM. Current and emerging Legionella diagnostics for laboratory and outbreak investigations. Clin Microbiol Rev 2015; 28:95-133. [PMID: 25567224 PMCID: PMC4284297 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00029-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 217] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Legionnaires' disease (LD) is an often severe and potentially fatal form of bacterial pneumonia caused by an extensive list of Legionella species. These ubiquitous freshwater and soil inhabitants cause human respiratory disease when amplified in man-made water or cooling systems and their aerosols expose a susceptible population. Treatment of sporadic cases and rapid control of LD outbreaks benefit from swift diagnosis in concert with discriminatory bacterial typing for immediate epidemiological responses. Traditional culture and serology were instrumental in describing disease incidence early in its history; currently, diagnosis of LD relies almost solely on the urinary antigen test, which captures only the dominant species and serogroup, Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 (Lp1). This has created a diagnostic "blind spot" for LD caused by non-Lp1 strains. This review focuses on historic, current, and emerging technologies that hold promise for increasing LD diagnostic efficiency and detection rates as part of a coherent testing regimen. The importance of cooperation between epidemiologists and laboratorians for a rapid outbreak response is also illustrated in field investigations conducted by the CDC with state and local authorities. Finally, challenges facing health care professionals, building managers, and the public health community in combating LD are highlighted, and potential solutions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey W Mercante
- Pneumonia Response and Surveillance Laboratory, Respiratory Diseases Branch, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonas M Winchell
- Pneumonia Response and Surveillance Laboratory, Respiratory Diseases Branch, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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14
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Napoli C, Fasano F, Iatta R, Barbuti G, Cuna T, Montagna MT. Legionella spp. and legionellosis in southeastern Italy: disease epidemiology and environmental surveillance in community and health care facilities. BMC Public Health 2010; 10:660. [PMID: 21044294 PMCID: PMC2988737 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-10-660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2009] [Accepted: 11/02/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following the publication of the Italian Guidelines for the control and prevention of legionellosis an environmental and clinical surveillance has been carried out in Southeastern Italy. The aim of the study is to identify the risk factors for the disease, so allowing better programming of the necessary prevention measures. METHODS During the period January 2000 - December 2009 the environmental surveillance was carried out by water sampling of 129 health care facilities (73 public and 56 private hospitals) and 533 buildings within the community (63 private apartments, 305 hotels, 19 offices, 4 churches, 116 gyms, 3 swimming pools and 23 schools). Water sampling and microbiological analysis were carried out following the Italian Guidelines. From January 2005, all facilities were subject to risk analysis through the use of a standardized report; the results were classified as good (G), medium (M) and bad (B). As well, all the clinical surveillance forms for legionellosis, which must be compiled by physicians and sent to the Regional Centre for Epidemiology (OER), were analyzed. RESULTS Legionella spp. was found in 102 (79.1%) health care facilities and in 238 (44.7%) community buildings. The percentages for the contamination levels < 1,000, 1,000-10,000, > 10,000 cfu/L were respectively 33.1%, 53.4% and 13.5% for samples from health care facilities and 33.5%, 43.3% and 23.2% for samples from the community. Both in hospital and community environments, Legionella pneumophila serogroup (L. pn sg) 2-14 was the most frequently isolate (respectively 54.8% and 40.8% of positive samples), followed by L. pn sg 1 (respectively 31.3% and 33%). The study showed a significant association between M or B score at the risk analysis and Legionella spp. positive microbiological test results (p < 0.001). From clinical surveillance, during the period January 2001 - August 2009, 97 cases of legionellosis were reported to the OER: 88 of community origin and 9 nosocomial. The most frequent symptoms were: fever (93.8%), cough (70.1%), dyspnea (58.8%), shivering (56.7%). Radiological evidence of pneumonia was reported in 68%. The laboratory diagnostic methods used were: urinary antigen (54.3%), single antibody titer (19.8%), only seroconversion (11.1%), other diagnostic methods (14.8%). CONCLUSIONS Our experience suggests that risk analysis and environmental microbiological surveillance should be carried out more frequently to control the environmental spread of Legionella spp. Furthermore, the laboratory diagnosis of legionellosis cannot be excluded only on the basis of a single negative test: some patients were positive to only one of the diagnostic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Napoli
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene section, University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Legionella Reference Laboratory - Regional Centre for Epidemiology (OER), Apulia Italy, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Fasano
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene section, University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberta Iatta
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene section, University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Barbuti
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene section, University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Teresa Cuna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene section, University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Montagna
- Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology - Hygiene section, University of Bari, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Legionella Reference Laboratory - Regional Centre for Epidemiology (OER), Apulia Italy, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
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15
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Napoli C, Iatta R, Fasano F, Marsico T, Montagna MT. Variable bacterial load of Legionella spp. in a hospital water system. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2009; 408:242-244. [PMID: 19836825 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2009] [Revised: 09/16/2009] [Accepted: 09/24/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Several approved protocols for the prevention of Legionella pneumonia base the type of intervention (to disinfect or not) on the level of contamination found (cfu/L). However, if the level of contamination by Legionella spp. of a water system fluctuates in a short period of time, inadequate sampling could lead to different decisions being made. To determine if there are significant variations in the bacterial count of Legionella spp., water samples were taken at different times from the same sites. Eight wards were selected from a large hospital in Southern Italy and a water sample was taken from 21 taps in each ward at the same time each day for 5 consecutive days. A Freidman test detected statistically significant differences in average Legionella spp. load over the 5 sampling days (p value<0.001). This fluctuating load can have practical implications: the Italian Guidelines recommend disinfection only for a Legionella count>10,000 cfu/L in hospitals without documented cases of disease. In the present study, the daily average loads varied, during the 5-day sampling period, above and below this cut-off (10,000 cfu/L). This means that the decision to disinfect or not would be different depending on which day the sampling was carried out. Our data suggest that, especially in health-care facilities, a single sampling would not give a realistic estimation of risk; therefore, even at lower levels of bacterial load, measures should be taken to reduce it further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Napoli
- Department of Biomedical Science - Hygiene Section, University of Bari, Bari, Italy.
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16
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Borella P, Bargellini A, Marchesi I, Rovesti S, Stancanelli G, Scaltriti S, Moro M, Montagna MT, Tatò D, Napoli C, Triassi M, Montegrosso S, Pennino F, Zotti CM, Ditommaso S, Giacomuzzi M. Prevalence of anti-legionella antibodies among Italian hospital workers. J Hosp Infect 2008; 69:148-55. [PMID: 18448198 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2008.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2007] [Accepted: 03/06/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the prevalence of anti-legionella antibodies in workers at hospitals with a long-term history of legionella contamination. The hospitals are located in Milan and Turin, northern Italy, and in Naples and Bari, southern Italy. Antibody prevalence and titres of healthcare workers, medical and dental students and blood donors were assessed. In total 28.5% of subjects were antibody positive, most frequently to L. pneumophila serogroups 7-14. Major differences were observed in seroprevalence and type of legionella antibody in persons from different geographic areas. Healthcare workers had a significantly higher frequency of antibodies compared with blood donors in Milan (35.4 vs 15.9%, P<0.001), whereas in Naples both groups exhibited high antibody frequency (48.8 vs 44.0%) and had a higher proportion of antibodies to legionella serogroups 1-6. Dental workers had a higher seroprevalence than office staff in Bari, but not in Turin, where daily disinfecting procedures had been adopted to avoid contamination of dental unit water. No association was found between the presence of antibodies and the presence of risk factors for legionellosis, nor with the occurrence of pneumonia and/or flu-like symptoms. In conclusion, the presence of legionella antibodies may be associated with occupational exposure in the hospital environment, but there was no evidence of any association with disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Borella
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Italy.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The goal of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Legionella species in hotel water distribution systems in Alanya, Turkey, which is an important tourism center. METHODS Water and swab samples were obtained from 52 Turkish hotels from August 2003 to September 2005. Water samples were collected in 100 mL sterile containers and were concentrated by membrane filters with a pore size of 0.45 microm. Heat treatment was used to eliminate other microorganisms from the samples, which were then spread on buffered charcoal yeast extract alpha agar plates and glycine, vancomycin, polymyxin, cycloheximide agar plates. Cysteine-dependent colonies were identified by latex agglutination. RESULTS In all, 491 water and swab samples were analyzed. The results of all samples were negative for Legionella in 16 (30.8%) hotels. Legionella species (92.5% of which were Legionella pneumophila) were detected in 93 (18.9%) of the samples. The most frequently isolated species were L pneumophila serogroups 6 (63.5%) and 1 (21.5%). CONCLUSIONS Legionella pneumophila serogroup 6 was the most common isolate detected in Turkish hotel water systems in our study. The result of Legionella urinary antigen tests, which are the diagnostic tests most often used to identify legionnaires' disease, may be negative in people infected with L pneumophila serogroup 6. We suggest that clinicians should apply the whole spectrum of laboratory methods for the detection of legionnaires' disease in patients with pneumonia of unknown origin and history of travel to Alanya, Turkey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haluk Erdogan
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Baskent University Alanya Hospital, Antalya, Turkey.
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