Legionellosis in Spain, 2010-2015

Abstract

Introduction: Legionellosis is a bacterial respiratory disease with an environmental origin that can be community and hospital-acquired; usually associated with devices, facilities and buildings. The best known is the pneumonic clinical form “Legionnaires' disease”. Objective: To determine legionellosis evolution case in Spain, between 20102015. Materials and methodos: Descriptive study of time series in which cases of legionellosis notified to the National Center of Epidemiology (Government of Spain) were analyzed. Case distribution was determined according to sex, autonomous community, month and age groups. For the last one, both sexes, men and women were expressed. Results: Case count in men was more than double as women. The distribution in the autonomous communities presented an increase in notified cases at the end of the period (nine of them), being notable in Castilla y León, Navarra and the Basque Country; and very relevant in Castilla-La Mancha. A seasonal pattern was identified with an epidemic peak in July-September and a greater number of cases around 50 years of age (both sexes). Conclusion: Despite the low prevalence with respect to other respiratory diseases, legionellosis has a great impact on public health. It shows a global and heterogeneous distribution in Spain, with a cases increase in the last two years. Therefore, it's considered to continue with a better prevention and control of the disease.