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UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

Shiloh

Shiloh

Editor, Senior Moderator
Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-18971993

24 July 2012 Last updated at 11:43 ET

Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent
breaking news

Seven people are being treated for Legionnaires' disease in an outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent.

Those affected are aged between their late 40s and 75, including one woman, health officials said.

Two men in their 70s are described as "stable" and the other patients are said to be "improving"...
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full page: (LINK). Edited.]

Legionnaires? disease in Stoke-on-Trent



24 July 2012



Public and environmental health experts from the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the Health and Safety Executive, the NHS in Stoke and Stoke-on-Trent City Council are jointly investigating seven confirmed cases of Legionnaires? disease in Stoke-on-Trent.


All seven patients are now being treated at University Hospital of North Staffordshire - two patients remain stable, the remaining patients are improving. The age range of patients is from late 40s -75 years old, only one case is female. The HPA is also investigating two cases identified in early summer as being possibly linked to the current cluster.

Professor Harsh Duggal, Director of the Health Protection Unit in Stafford, said: ?While we do not currently have a direct link between the cases the evidence points to the fact that there is a common source. We are taking detailed histories of the movements of the patients to see if there are similar patterns which would indicate a local source of infection.

?Legionnaires? disease is a rare but potentially life threatening illness. It is caused by a bacteria commonly associated with water systems and cannot be passed from person to person.

?As a precaution we are working with the Health and Safety Executive and Stoke-on-Trent City Council Environmental Health Services to identify and control any possible sources of the disease.?

The action to date includes:
  • Identifying, sampling and advising on the disinfection of potential sources of the disease, such as cooling towers, in areas that the cases may have visited in common.
  • Alerting health care staff, including GPs in the areas the patients live, to look out for patients who may be developing symptoms of the disease
  • Making people aware of the symptoms of Legionnaires? disease
Legionnaire?s disease is caused by a germ called Legionella pneumophila. Although this bacteria is widely distributed in the environment it can lead to human illness if sources such as wet air conditioning systems are not well maintained.

It cannot be spread from one person to another.

The early symptoms include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever which can then lead to pneumonia. As with any pneumonia, the patient can become very unwell. Diarrhoea and/or confusion may occur, as well as chest pain and shortness of breath. It can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics.

People are advised if they are feeling unwell with any of the possible signs to go and see their doctor, ring NHS Direct on 08454647 or visit www.nhs.uk

It is stressed that there is no need for anyone who is well or only mildly unwell to see their doctor or to have any tests.

ENDS

Media contact Ann Fleming, HPA West Midlands , 07834 311393
Note to Editors:

  1. This is a joint statement from the statutory agencies who are working together to investigate the source of the infection ? the Health Protection Agency, NHS Stoke on Trent, Stoke on Trent City Council and the Health and Safety Executive.
  2. Legionnaires? disease is a pneumonia, caused by the Legionella bacteria. The majority of cases are reported as single (isolated) cases but outbreaks can occur, with around 300 cases reported each year in England, just under half of these are associated with foreign travel. All ages can be affected but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age and generally men more than women.
  3. The early symptoms of Legionnaires? disease include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop. Deaths can occur in 10-15% of the general population affected and may be higher in some groups of patients.
  4. The incubation period ranges from 2-10 days, sometimes up to 14 days. In rare cases some people may develop symptoms as late as three weeks after exposure. Antibiotics against the infection can be effective in treating the disease.
  5. Legionella is widely distributed in the environment. They have been found in ponds, hot and cold water systems and water in air conditioning cooling systems.
  6. Person to person spread does not occur. Breathing in aerosols from a contaminated water system is the most likely route of transmission.
  7. In 2011 there were 239 cases of Legionnaire?s disease in England and Wales, of these 23 were in the West Midlands.
  8. The seven cases of Legionnaires? are not hospital acquired.
Last reviewed: 24 July 2012
​
- -------
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full text: (LINK). Edited.]

3.00pm update on Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent

​

25 July 2012



Two further case of Legionnaires' disease have been confirmed in the Stoke-on-Trent outbreak bringing the total number of cases to nine. All those affected are between their late 40s and mid 70s and are being treated at University Hospital of North Staffordshire. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) is also investigating two cases identified in early summer as being possibly linked to the current cluster.


Professor Harsh Duggal, Director of the Health Protection Unit in Stafford, said: ?Early microbiology typing results back from the HPA laboratories show that samples taken from some of the patients look very similar so far and this is consistent with the cases having caught their infection from the same environmental source. We are taking detailed histories of the movements of the patients to see if there are similar patterns which would indicate a local source of infection.

?It is important to stress that the outbreak is not hospital related and the hospital is a safe environment for visitors.?
Public and environmental health experts from the HPA the Health and Safety Executive, the NHS in Stoke and Stoke-on-Trent City Council are working together to identify and investigate possible sources.

The action to date includes:
  • Identifying, sampling and advising on the disinfection of potential sources of the disease, such as cooling towers, in areas that the cases may have visited in common.
  • Alerting health care staff, including GPs in the areas the patients live, to look out for patients who may be developing symptoms of the disease
  • Importantly making people aware of the symptoms of Legionnaires' disease
Dr Zafar Iqbal, Director of Public Health, NHS in Stoke, said: ?Legionnaires? disease is a rare but potentially life threatening illness. It is caused by a bacteria commonly associated with water systems and cannot be passed from person to person. You cannot catch Legionnaires' disease from drinking water.

The early symptoms include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever which can then lead to pneumonia. As with any pneumonia, the patient can become very unwell. Diarrhoea and confusion may occur, as well as chest and breathing symptoms. However Legionnaires' disease can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics and this is best done as early as possible.?

Legionnaires' disease is caused by a germ called Legionella pneumophila. Although this bacteria is widely distributed in the environment it can lead to human illness if sources such as wet air conditioning systems are not well maintained.

It cannot be spread from one person to another.
Click to expand...

People are advised if they are feeling unwell with any of the possible signs to go and see their doctor, ring NHS Direct on 08454647 or visit www.nhs.uk

It is stressed that there is no need for anyone who is well or only mildly unwell to see their doctor or to have any tests.


ENDS


These media update will be issued at 3.00pm each day until further notice.

Media contact Ann Fleming on 07834 311393 Note to Editors:

  1. This is a joint statement from the statutory agencies who are working together to investigate the source of the infection ? the Health Protection Agency, NHS Stoke on Trent, Stoke on Trent City Council and the Health and Safety Executive.
  2. Legionnaires' disease is a pneumonia, caused by the bacteria Legionella. The majority of cases are reported as single (isolated) cases but outbreaks can occur, with around 300 cases reported each year in England, just under half of these are associated with foreign travel. All ages can be affected but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age and generally men more than women.
  3. The early symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop. Deaths occur in 10-15% of the general population affected and may be higher in some groups of patients.
  4. The incubation period ranges from 2-10 days, sometimes up to 14 days. In rare cases some people may develop symptoms as late as three weeks after exposure. Antibiotics against the infection are effective in treating the disease.
  5. Legionella is widely distributed in the environment. They have been found in ponds, hot and cold water systems and water in air conditioning cooling systems.
  6. Person to person spread does not occur. Breathing in aerosols from a contaminated water system is the most likely route of transmission.
  7. In 2011 there were 239 cases of Legionnaires' disease in England and Wales, of these 23 were in the West Midlands.
  8. The cases of Legionnaires' disease are not hospital acquired.
Last reviewed: 25 July 2012
​
- ------
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full page: (LINK).]

Update on Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent



26 July 2012


Two further case of Legionnaires? disease have been confirmed in the Stoke-on-Trent outbreak bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 11. All those affected are between their late 40s and mid 70s. The Health Protection Agency (HPA) is also investigating two cases identified in early summer as being possibly linked to the current cluster.

Public and environmental health experts from the HPA the Health and Safety Executive, the NHS in Stoke and Stoke-on-Trent City Council continue to work together to identify and investigate possible sources.

Professor Harsh Duggal, Director of the Health Protection Agency?s Health Protection Unit in Stafford, said: ?Our investigation into possible sources continues and we have been able to obtain detailed information on the movements of those affected.

?We are now working with HPA experts in mapping the outbreak and our partners to pinpoint possible sources, using the information we have gathered.?

It is important to stress that the outbreak is not hospital related and the hospital is a safe environment for visitors.
Action to date includes:
  • Identifying, sampling and advising on the disinfection of potential sources of the disease, such as cooling towers, in areas that the cases may have visited in common.
  • Alerting health care staff, including GPs in the areas the patients live, to look out for patients who may be developing symptoms of the disease.
  • Importantly, making people aware of the symptoms of Legionnaires' disease.
Dr Zafar Iqbal, Director of Public Health, NHS in Stoke, said: ?Legionnaires? disease is a rare but potentially life threatening illness. It is caused by a bacteria commonly associated with water systems and cannot be passed from person to person.

?You cannot catch Legionnaire?s disease from drinking water.

The early symptoms include a 'flu-like' illness with muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever which can then lead to pneumonia. As with any pneumonia, the patient can become very unwell. Diarrhoea and confusion may occur, as well as chest and breathing symptoms. However Legionnaires' disease can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics and this is best done as early as possible.?

Legionnaires' disease is caused by a germ called Legionella pneumophila. Although this bacteria is widely distributed in the environment it can lead to human illness if sources such as wet air conditioning systems are not well maintained.

It cannot be spread from one person to another.

People are advised if they are feeling unwell with any of the possible signs to go and see their doctor, ring NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit www.nhs.uk

It is stressed that there is no need for anyone who is well or only mildly unwell to see their doctor or to have any tests.


ENDS


These media update will be issued at 3pm each day until further notice.

Media contact Ann Fleming on 07834 311393
Note to Editors:

  1. This is a joint statement from the statutory agencies who are working together to investigate the source of the infection ? the Health Protection Agency, NHS Stoke-on-Trent, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and the Health and Safety Executive.
  2. Legionnaires' disease is a pneumonia, caused by the bacteria Legionella. The majority of cases are reported as single (isolated) cases but outbreaks can occur, with around 300 cases reported each year in England, just under half of these are associated with foreign travel. All ages can be affected but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age and generally men more than women.
  3. The early symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include a 'flu-like' illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop. Deaths occur in 10-15% of the general population affected and may be higher in some groups of patients.
  4. The incubation period ranges from 2-10 days, sometimes up to 14 days. In rare cases some people may develop symptoms as late as three weeks after exposure. Antibiotics against the infection are effective in treating the disease.
  5. Legionella is widely distributed in the environment. They have been found in ponds, hot and cold water systems and water in air conditioning cooling systems.
  6. Person to person spread does not occur. Breathing in aerosols from a contaminated water system is the most likely route of transmission.
  7. In 2011 there were 239 cases of Legionnaires' disease in England and Wales; of these 23 were in the West Midlands.
  8. The cases of Legionnaires' disease are not hospital acquired.
Last reviewed: 26 July 2012
​
- ------
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-stoke-staffordshire-19019129

27 July 2012 Last updated at 10:55 ET
Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent: Four more cases
University Hospital of North Staffordshire Fourteen patients are being treated at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire

Four more Legionnaires' disease cases have been confirmed in Stoke-on-Trent, taking the total to 15.

The Health Protection Agency said a man in a critical condition had been sent to Glenfield Hospital in Leicester.

Another person in a critical condition was being treated at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire along with 13 other patients.

The agency said those patients, all aged in their late 40s to mid 70s, were in a "stable or improving condition"...
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full page: (LINK).]

Media update on Legionnaires? disease in Stoke-on-Trent



27 July 2012


Four further cases of Legionnaires? disease have been confirmed in the Stoke-on-Trent outbreak bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 15. All those affected are between their late 40s and mid 70s.

Public and environmental health experts from the HPA the Health and Safety Executive, the NHS in Stoke and Stoke-on-Trent City Council continue to work together to identify and investigate possible sources.

Professor Harsh Duggal, Director of the Health Protection Agency?s Health Protection Unit in Stafford, said: ?Our investigation into possible sources continues. We have sampled and disinfected potential sources of exposure but people can develop symptoms up to two weeks after being exposed to legionella so we are not surprised by these new cases.

?We continue to map the outbreak and work with our partners to pinpoint possible sources, using the information we have gathered.?

It is important to stress that the outbreak is not hospital related and the hospital is a safe environment for visitors.

Action to date includes:
  • Identifying, sampling and disinfecting potential sources of the disease, such as cooling towers, in areas that the cases may have visited in common.
  • Alerting health care staff, including GPs in the areas the patients live, to look out for patients who may be developing symptoms of the disease.
  • Importantly making people aware of the symptoms of Legionnaires? disease.
Dr Zafar Iqbal, Director of Public Health, NHS in Stoke, said: ?Legionnaires? disease is a rare but potentially life threatening illness. It is caused by a bacteria commonly associated with water systems and cannot be passed from person to person. You cannot catch Legionnaires? disease from drinking water. The early symptoms include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever which can then lead to pneumonia. As with any pneumonia, the patient can become very unwell. Diarrhoea and confusion may occur, as well as chest and breathing symptoms. However Legionnaires? disease can be effectively treated with a course of antibiotics and this is best done as early as possible.?

Legionnaires? disease is caused by a germ called Legionella pneumophila. Although this bacteria is widely distributed in the environment it can lead to human illness if sources such as wet air conditioning systems are not well maintained.

It cannot be spread from one person to another.

People are advised if they are feeling unwell with any of the possible signs to go and see their doctor, ring NHS Direct on 08454647 or visit www.nhs.uk.
It is stressed that there is no need for anyone who is well or only mildly unwell to see their doctor or to have any tests.

Media updates will be issued at 3pm each day until further notice.

Media contact Ann Fleming on 07834 311393



Note to Editors:
  1. This is a joint statement from the statutory agencies who are working together to investigate the source of the infection ? the Health Protection Agency, NHS Stoke on Trent, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and the Health and Safety Executive.
  2. The HPA is not able to comment on patient details or conditions.
  3. Legionnaires' disease is a pneumonia, caused by the bacteria Legionella. The majority of cases are reported as single (isolated) cases but outbreaks can occur, with around 300 cases reported each year in England, just under half of these are associated with foreign travel. All ages can be affected but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age and generally men more than women.
  4. The early symptoms of legionellosis include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop. Deaths occur in 10-15% of the general population and may be higher in some groups of patients.
  5. The incubation period ranges from 2-10 days, sometimes up to 14 days. In rare cases some people may develop symptoms as late as three weeks after exposure. Antibiotics against the infection are effective in treating the disease.
  6. Legionella is widely distributed in the environment. They have been found in ponds, hot and cold water systems and water in air conditioning cooling systems.
  7. Person to person spread does not occur. Breathing in aerosols from a contaminated water system is the most likely route of transmission.
  8. In 2011 there were 239 cases of Legionnaires? disease in England and Wales, of these 23 were in the West Midlands.
  9. The cases of Legionnaires? disease are not hospital acquired.
Last reviewed: 27 July 2012
​
- ------
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

Legionnaires outbreak: patient dies
Jul 28 2012
One of the patients affected by a Legionnaires' disease outbreak has died in hospital, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) said.
A total of 16 people have been confirmed as suffering from the disease in Stoke-on-Trent.
The number of confirmed cases has been rising steadily since news of the outbreak emerged on Tuesday and today the HPA said one of the patients in hospital had died.
...
http://www.theonlinemail.co.uk/bang...nnaires-outbreak-patient-dies-66580-31495878/

Stoke-on-Trent Legionnaires' Disease outbreak: Patient dies in hospital
Saturday, July 28, 2012Chris_HoggFollow
A PATIENT has died after an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) also confirmed another case, bringing the total number to 16.
...
http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.u...reak-Patient/story-16609859-detail/story.html

Legionnaires' disease patient dies and fifteen more being treated as health officials search for source of deadly bug
News of the outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent first emerged on Tuesday
Health investigators searching buildings for source of the bug
By DANIEL MILLER
PUBLISHED: 12:15 EST, 28 July 2012 | UPDATED: 12:16 EST, 28 July 2012

A patient has died in hospital following an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent.
A further 15 people are confirmed as suffering from the disease. All those affected are aged between their late-40s and mid-70s.
The person who died was being treated at University Hospital of North Staffordshire where officials are waiting for a cause of death from the coroner. No further details were released.

...
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/art...s-search-source-deadly-bug.html#ixzz21wRKdLzO
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full text: (LINK).]

Update 29 July: Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent



29 July 2012


There are no new cases of Legionnaires? disease to report in Stoke-on-Trent today. The total number of cases remains at 16.

A spokesman for University Hospital of North Staffordshire said: ?Eight patients remain in hospital and all are in a stable or improving condition. Three patients were well enough to go home today and have been discharged.?
A spokesperson for Glenfield Hospital, Leicester said: ?We are treating a patient transferred from the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, confirmed with Legionnaires? disease who is in a critical but stable condition.?


These media updates will be issued at 3.00pm each day until further notice.

Media contact Ann Fleming: 07834 311393


Last reviewed: 30 July 2012
​
-
------
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, UK, full text: (LINK).]

Update 28 July: Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent



28 July 2012


Sadly one of the patients in hospital with Legionnaires? disease died today. We are not giving out any further details on the person who has died and our thoughts are with their family. We will await cause of death from the coroner.

There has one further case of Legionnaires? disease confirmed in Stoke-on-Trent. The total number of cases remain at 16. All those affected are between their late 40s and mid 70s.

A spokesman for University Hospital of North Staffordshire said: ?The Trust is currently treating 11 patients confirmed with Legionnaires? disease who are all in a stable or improving condition. One patient has sadly died. Three patients are well enough to go home and have been discharged.?
A spokesperson for Glenfield Hospital, Leicester said: ?We are treating a patient transferred from the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, confirmed with Legionnaires? disease who is in a critical but stable condition.?


These media updates will be issued at 3.00pm each day until further notice.

Media contact Ann Fleming: 07834 311393


Last reviewed: 30 July 2012
​
-
------
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full text: (LINK).]

Stoke-on-Trent Legionnaires? Disease Outbreak ? probable source identified



30 July 2012


Public and environmental health experts investigating the Legionnaires? disease outbreak at Stoke-on-Trent believe they have identified a probable source.

The probable source is a hot tub based at JTF Warehouse, City Road, Fenton, Stoke-on-Trent. We would like to emphasise that investigations are still ongoing. Environmental Health specialists from the Health and Safety Executive and Stoke-on-Trent City Council have taken and continue to take samples from sites across Stoke.

A spokesperson from the Health and Safety Executive said: "HSE continues to inspect premises where we are the enforcing authority and will do so until we have eliminated those sites from our investigations and are sufficiently assured there are no other possible sources."

The samples from the hot tub at JTF Warehouse were confirmed by the Health Protection Agency?s specialist laboratory in Colindale last night as being an unusual strain legionella bacteria. The strain matched those taken from patients. JTF warehouse are fully cooperating with the investigation,

Dr Sue Ibbotson, regional director, Health Protection Agency West Midlands said: ?We have identified the probable source of the Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke. We have the evidence from DNA fingerprinting of samples from the hot tub and the patients being caused by the same previously unseen strain of legionella. The HPA also took detailed histories from the confirmed cases and we know that 17 of the 18 confirmed cases visited this warehouse in the two weeks before they fell ill. Added to that we know that spa pools are known to be effective mechanisms for spreading legionella infection.

?We may still expect to see new cases of Legionnaires? disease related to this outbreak. JTF Warehouse decommissioned the hot tub on 24 July. It can take up to two weeks following exposure for people to develop symptoms of Legionnaires? disease and a further few days before they go to see their GP. We continue to work with our partners to investigate this outbreak and continue to take samples across the city in case there are other sites with the same strain of legionnella.?

Dr Zafar Iqbal, Director of Public Health, NHS in Stoke, said: ?It?s good news that we have a probable source, especially as we know that is has been dealt with through precautionary measures last week.

?If people are displaying symptoms of Legionnaires? disease, such as: aching muscles, fever, tiredness, headaches and a dry cough, they should see their doctor or contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

?A Legionnaires? disease outbreak is a significant public health issue, and requires experts working in a systematic way and at great speed to minimise the impact on the wider public, and hopefully the measures taken will have protected local people.?

Two further cases of Legionnaires? disease were confirmed today. A spokesman for University Hospital of North Staffordshire said: ?The Trust is currently treating seven patients confirmed with Legionnaires' disease. All of the patients are in a stable or improving condition.?

A spokesperson for Glenfield Hospital, Leicester said: ?We are treating a patient transferred from the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, confirmed with Legionnaires? disease who is in stable and improving condition?


Media enquiries: Ann Fleming, HPA Regional Communications Officer 07834 311393


Note to Editors:
  1. This is a joint statement from the statutory agencies who are working together to investigate the source of the infection ? the Health Protection Agency, NHS Stoke on Trent, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and the Health and Safety Executive.
  2. The HPA is not able to comment on patient details or conditions.
  3. Legionnaires? disease is a pneumonia, caused by the bacteria Legionella pneumophila. The majority of cases are reported as single (isolated) cases but outbreaks can occur. There are round 350 cases reported each year in England, just under half of these are associated with foreign travel. All ages can be affected but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age and generally men more than women.
  4. The early symptoms of legionellosis include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop. About 10-15% of people who get Legionnaires? disease will die; this may be higher in some groups of patients.
  5. The incubation period ranges from 2-10 days, sometimes up to 14 days. In rare cases some people may develop symptoms as late as three weeks after exposure. Antibiotics against the infection can be effective in treating the disease. However, patients do still die despite treatment with antibiotics.
  6. Legionella bacteria widely distributed in the natural environment as well as man made hot and cold water systems, spa pools and cooling towers. .
  7. The disease is spread through the air from a water source. Person to person spread does not occur. Breathing in aerosols from a contaminated water system is the most likely route of transmission.
  8. In 2011 there were 239 cases of Legionnaires? disease in England and Wales, of these 23 were in the West Midlands.
  9. The cases of Legionnaires? disease are not hospital acquired.
Last reviewed: 30 July 2012
​
- -------
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full page: (LINK).]

Update 31 July: Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent



31 July 2012


Public and environmental health experts continue to investigate the Legionnaires? disease outbreak at Stoke-on-Trent after identifying a probable source, in order to eliminate all potential sources from the investigation.

There has been one confirmed case of Legionnaires? disease reported to the Health Protection Agency?s West Midlands North Health Protection Unit in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 19.

It can take up to two weeks following exposure for people to develop symptoms of Legionnaires? disease and a further few days before they go to see their GP. As such we may still expect to see new cases of Legionnaires? disease related to this outbreak.

Dr Zafar Iqbal, Director of Public Health, NHS in Stoke, said: ?It?s important to remember that Legionnaires? disease cannot be passed from person to person. The early symptoms of legionella infection include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop.

?If people have any general concerns or minor symptoms they should contact NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or if they are unwell they should see their GP as normal.?

Professor Harsh Duggal, Director of the West Midlands North Health Protection Unit, said: ?We continue to work with partner organisations in this outbreak to take samples across the City in case there are other sites with the same strain of legionnella and in order to eliminate all potential sources from our investigations.

?Since we were notified of the first case associated with this outbreak, we have worked very closely with our partner organisations to make sure the necessary control measures were taken quickly and in an effort to find a potential source.

?Working in this way and at great speed has enabled us to get the results we have and minimised the impact on the wider public.?

A spokesman for University Hospital of North Staffordshire said: ?The Trust is currently treating eight patients, all of whom are in a stable or improving condition. These eight include one new patient and one patient who required readmission.?
A spokesperson for Glenfield Hospital, Leicester said: ?We are treating a patient transferred from the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, confirmed with Legionnaires? disease who is in stable and improving condition.?

Ends


Media enquiries: Contact the Health Protection Agency West Midlands press office on 0121 232 9223



Note to Editors:
  1. This is a joint statement from the statutory agencies who are working together to investigate the source of the infection ? the Health Protection Agency, NHS Stoke on Trent, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and the Health and Safety Executive.
  2. The HPA is not able to comment on patient details or conditions.
  3. Legionnaires? disease is a pneumonia, caused by the bacteria Legionella pneumophila. The majority of cases are reported as single (isolated) cases but outbreaks can occur. There are round 350 cases reported each year in England, just under half of these are associated with foreign travel. All ages can be affected but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age and generally men more than women.
  4. The early symptoms of legionellosis include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop. About 10-15% of people who get Legionnaires? disease will die; this may be higher in some groups of patients.
  5. The incubation period ranges from 2-10 days, sometimes up to 14 days. In rare cases some people may develop symptoms as late as three weeks after exposure. Antibiotics against the infection can be effective in treating the disease. However, patients do still die despite treatment with antibiotics.
  6. Legionella bacteria widely distributed in the natural environment as well as man made hot and cold water systems, spa pools and cooling towers.
  7. The disease is spread through the air from a water source. Person to person spread does not occur. Breathing in aerosols from a contaminated water system is the most likely route of transmission.
  8. In 2011 there were 239 cases of Legionnaires? disease in England and Wales, of these 23 were in the West Midlands.
  9. The cases of Legionnaires? disease are not hospital acquired.
Last reviewed: 31 July 2012
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Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full page: (LINK).]

Media update on Legionnaires? disease in Stoke-on-Trent



3 August 2012


A further case of Legionnaires? disease has been confirmed in the Stoke-on-Trent outbreak bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 20. The case has been discharged from hospital and is recovering at home.

This new case is not unexpected. It can take up to two weeks following exposure for people to develop symptoms of Legionnaires? disease and a further few days before they go to see their GP.
A spokesman for University Hospital of North Staffordshire said: ?Three patients remain in hospital and all are in a stable or improving condition.?

Media enquiries: Contact the Health Protection Agency West Midlands press office on 0121 232 9223


Last reviewed: 3 August 2012
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Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, UK, full page: (LINK).]

Media update on Legionnaires? disease in Stoke-on-Trent



6 August 2012


A man in his 70s who was being treated in hospital for Legionnaires? disease associated with the recent outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent sadly died on Saturday (4 August). The total number of confirmed cases remains at 20.
A spokesperson for University Hospital of North Staffordshire said: ?We can confirm that a man in his 70s has sadly died. Two further patients remain in hospital and are in a stable or improving condition.?

Media enquiries: Contact the Health Protection Agency West Midlands press office on 0121 232 9223



Last reviewed: 6 August 2012
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Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

Source: http://www.itv.com/news/central/update/2012-08-13/another-case-of-legionnaires-disease/

Another case of Legionnaires Disease
Last updated Mon 13 Aug 2012


Another case of Legionnaires' disease has been confirmed in Stoke-on-Trent following an outbreak in the city thought to be linked to a hot tub.

The Health Protection Agency said the latest case brings the total to 21. The patient, who is being treated at the University Hospital of North Staffordshire, is a man in his 70s...
 
Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, United Kingdom, full page: (LINK).]

Update 13 August: Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent



13 August 2012


A further case of Legionnaires? disease has been confirmed in the Stoke-on-Trent outbreak bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 21. The case, a man in his seventies, is recovering in hospital.

This new case is not unexpected. It can take up to two weeks following exposure for people to develop symptoms of Legionnaires? disease and a further few days before they might see their GP.
A spokesperson for University Hospital of North Staffordshire said: ?Three patients remain in hospital and all are in a stable or improving condition.?

Media enquiries: Contact the Health Protection Agency West Midlands press office on 0121 232 9223



Last reviewed: 13 August 2012
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Re: UK: Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Stoke-on-Trent

[Source: Health Protection Agency, England, full text: (LINK). Edited.]

Update 17 August: Legionnaires' disease in Stoke-on-Trent



17 August 2012


The outbreak of Legionnaires? disease in Stoke-on-Trent that resulted in 21 cases and two deaths has been declared over by public health experts from the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

Of the two patients remaining in hospital, one patient is due to be discharged today (Friday). The second is improving and has been transferred from critical care to a ward.

It is now 25 days since the probable source - a hot tub on display at JTF Warehouse in Fenton - was decommissioned and health experts no longer expect to see cases associated with this outbreak.
Officers from Stoke-on-Trent City Council will be continuing their investigation with a view to possible enforcement action and also to provide the Coroner with any information he may require for his inquest.


Ends


Note: a spokesperson from the HPA will not be available for interview.

Media enquiries: HPA West Midlands press office on 0121 232 9223 Stoke-on-Trent City Council press office 01782 232621


Note to Editors:
  1. This is a joint statement from the statutory agencies who have worked together to investigate the source of the infection ? the Health Protection Agency, NHS Stoke, Stoke-on-Trent City Council and the Health and Safety Executive.
  2. Legionnaires? disease is a pneumonia, caused by the bacteria Legionella pneumophila. The majority of cases are reported as single (isolated) cases but outbreaks can occur. There are round 350 cases reported each year in England, just under half of these are associated with foreign travel. All ages can be affected but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age and generally men more than women.
  3. The early symptoms of legionellosis include a ?flu-like? illness with muscle aches, tiredness headaches, dry cough and fever. Sometimes diarrhoea occurs and confusion may develop. About 10-15% of people who get Legionnaires? disease will die; this may be higher in some groups of patients.
  4. The incubation period ranges from 2-10 days, sometimes up to 14 days. In rare cases some people may develop symptoms as late as three weeks after exposure. Antibiotics against the infection can be effective in treating the disease. However, patients do still die despite treatment with antibiotics.
  5. Legionella bacteria widely distributed in the natural environment as well as man made hot and cold water systems, spa pools and cooling towers.
  6. The disease is spread through the air from a water source. Person to person spread does not occur. Breathing in aerosols from a contaminated water system is the most likely route of transmission.
  7. In 2011 there were 239 cases of Legionnaires? disease in England and Wales, of these 23 were in the West Midlands.
  8. The cases of Legionnaires? disease are not hospital acquired.
Last reviewed: 17 August 2012
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