Hospital-acquired Legionnaires' disease: new developments

Abstract

Purpose of review 

Hospital-acquired Legionnaires' disease is being increasingly discovered with the advent of rapid diagnostic techniques. This review examines both the clinical and political aspects of this important problem.

Recent findings 

New sources are being recognized, including the water supply of pediatric hospitals, long-term care facilities, and rehabilitation centers. Concern by the public, unfavorable publicity and litigation are now emerging as hospital-acquired Legionnaires' disease is coming under scrutiny by the lay media.

Summary 

Pro-active approaches to environmental detection and disinfection of hospital water systems are being demanded by public officials in place of the passive approach favored by many public health agencies.