Vital Signs: Deficiencies in Environmental Control Identified in Outbreaks of Legionnaires’ Disease — North America, 2000–2014

• DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6522e1
• Publication Date: 2016-06-07T12:52:48Z
• Authors: Laurel E. Garrison; Jasen M. Kunz; Laura A. Cooley; Matthew R. Moore; Claressa Lucas; Stephanie Schrag; John Sarisky; Cynthia G. Whitney
• Keywords: Legionnaires' disease; Legionella; Case fatality rate; Disease Control

The number of reported cases Legionnaires' disease, a severe pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella, is increasing in United States. During 2000-2014, rate legionellosis increased from 0.42 to 1.62 per 100,000 persons; 4% were outbreak-associated. Legionella transmitted through aerosolization contaminated water. A new industry standard for prevention growth and transmission water systems buildings was published 2015. CDC investigated outbreaks disease identify gaps building system maintenance guide efforts.Information summaries outbreak investigations during 2000-2014 systematically abstracted, deficiencies land-based categorized as process failures, human errors, equipment or unmanaged external changes.During participated 38 field disease. Among 27 outbreaks, median 10 (range = 3-82) case fatality 7% 0%-80%). Sufficient information evaluate available 23 (85%) investigations. Of these, all had at least one deficiency; 11 (48%) ≥2 categories. Fifteen (65%) linked 12 (52%) eight (35%) changes.Multiple common preventable identified association with highlighting importance comprehensive management programs buildings. Properly implemented programs, described standard, could reduce transmission, preventing reducing