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A large outbreak of Legionnaires' disease has been reported from Portugal. The outbreak is occuring in the town of Vila Franca de Xira, which is in the Lisboa region of the country, around 16 miles north-east of Lisbon. More than 230 cases have been reported, including five deaths.
The source of the outbreak has not been offically identified although local media reports suggest that a cooling tower in the town may be responsible.
(Via BBC News - accessed 12/11/14)
Legionella pneumophila is an organism with a worldwide distribution, it is found in mud, environmental and recreational waters, cooling towers, air conditioning units, and many piped water supplies.
The traveller should be made aware of the risk, mode of transmission and symptoms.
Flushing through showers in hotels or institutions with hot water when they have not been used recently may help.
Travellers to outbreak areas who develop an influenza-like illness (fever, cough, shortness of breath) during their stay or up to 14 days after their return home, should seek medical attention.
