Italy issues travel warning amid deadly outbreak of lung infection. Credit: Canva
Italian authorities are advising travellers to exercise caution following an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in the Milan area, which has tragically claimed the lives of four tourists. The outbreak, first identified in April 2024, has seen a surge in cases, prompting the Italian government to issue a travel warning, particularly for those planning to travel to Milan and the surrounding regions. A dozen people are currently receiving hospital treatment and 53 infections have been confirmed as of 19 August.
Legionnaires’ disease is a serious lung infection caused by bacteria. It is usually contracted by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing Legionella bacteria, which are commonly found in poorly maintained air conditioning or water systems. Although it can be treated with antibiotics, Legionnaires’ disease can be fatal, especially for vulnerable people.
The exact origin of the outbreak is still under investigation. However, Italian health authorities suspect that it may be linked to deficiencies in the water systems of buildings in the affected areas. To contain the spread, authorities have implemented stricter hygiene protocols and inspections in hotels and public buildings. “Water samples have been collected from several points in the municipal water supply system, both from the water systems of the private residences of patients/control cases and from cooling towers. Public health activities continue to be implemented to prevent transmission and the emergence of new cases, including a chemical disinfection with chlorine of the municipal water supply system and private residences,” the authorities reported.
If you’re in the area, be on the lookout for these signs and symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease:
High fever
Constant cough
Shortness of breath
Diarrhea
Muscle pain
Severe headache
Nausea
Confusion
Coughing up blood
Severe abdominal pain
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