Health authorities warn that it is necessary to frequently disinfect equipment where the bacteria may appear
The detected cases of legionella in Portugal in 2024 – 489 – were the highest in the last ten years. ERSAR speaks of a growing trend in the country.
In 2014, the country was shocked by 12 deaths due to an outbreak of legionella in Vila Franca de Xira. That year there were 556 situations. It was something new.
This microorganism usually lives in water, in natural aquatic environments, such as rivers and lakes, and can contaminate water systems, such as supply networks, refrigeration systems or irrigation systems.
The infection is transmitted via the respiratory route, through inhalation of contaminated water droplets. In turn, drinking water does not cause the disease.
Last year, the number of cases reached the highest value since that fateful year – reveals .
The annual report on water and waste services in Portugal, released by the Water and Waste Sector Regulatory Entity (ERSAR) and cited by the morning newspaper, reports 489 cases in 2024.
According to ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control), a mortality proportionate due to Legionnaires’ disease in Portugal was, in 2024, 10,79%.
“Lack of control”
On the one hand, cited by JN, the DGS says that the “increasing trend of reported cases” is “motivated by the increase in clinical alert, improved adherence to notification and increased system completeness”.
On the other hand, public health doctors warn of the lack of control.
The president of the National Association of Public Health Doctors (ANMSP) warns that not all public institutions have adopted the prevention and control plans provided for by law.
“The greatest responsibility lies with companies and public bodies in maintaining their equipment, which has the greatest potential to cause outbreaks”, recalls Bernardo Gomes.
“It was expected that these institutions would have already implemented the prevention and control plans provided for in the ordinance. However, although such plans have been implemented in some establishments, others still do not have them in force”, points out the public health specialist.
Health authorities warn that it is necessary to frequent disinfection of equipment where the bacteria can appear, such as water tanks, water heaters and showers.
