A Legionella outbreak in Basel has resulted in 26 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease, with 25 people hospitalized and one person reported dead.
Nine patients remain hospitalized, including seven who are receiving intensive care. Most infections occurred in the central district of Basel, particularly in Kleinbasel.
According to the Health Department, water-based cooling towers are considered the main focus of the outbreak. Inspections found that eight out of ten examined systems had exceeded legal limits for Legionella bacteria.
Two systems located on the roof of an office building on Rebgasse tested positive for Legionella pneumophila, a strain considered dangerous to humans. The systems were taken out of operation on Friday and are currently being repaired.
Legionella bacteria multiply most effectively in water temperatures between 25 and 50 degrees Celsius. They can thrive in environments such as water pipes, heating systems, and water storage tanks.
The infection occurs through inhaling contaminated water droplets, for example while showering or through air-conditioning systems. It is not typically spread from person to person.
