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As of 18 June 2012, the latest reports on the Edinburgh Legionnaires’ disease outbreak showed that there were 44 confirmed cases and 47 suspected cases. The total number of overall cases is now 91.
Of those cases being treated in hospital, 7 are in intensive care, down from a high of 15 last Sunday, and 18 are on general wards. A total of 19 cases are being treated in the community, 38 have been discharged from hospital and two people have sadly died. Seven cases are being treated outwith the NHS Lothian area. The age of the confirmed cases range between 33 and 85 years, with more males than females affected.
Advice for Travellers
The risk to the general public is considered to be low, however, anyone with concerns is advised to contact their GP or NHS 24’s dedicated hotline on 0800 0858 531.
Travellers to the area should however be aware of this recent incident and should they develop an influenza-like illness with fever, cough or shortness of breath during their stay or up to two weeks after return home, they should seek medical advice promptly for investigation.
Advice for Healthcare Professionals
Clinicians are advised to consider Legionnaires’ disease as a possible diagnosis in patients who present with flu-like symptoms and/or lower respiratory tract symptoms, or severe respiratory illness, and who have worked or stayed in South-West Edinburgh from mid-May until the first week of June inclusive.
Clinicians are also asked to consider arranging testing of urine samples for Legionella antigen, and sputum for Legionella, on all suspected cases.
