Is Legionellosis Increasing in the U.S.?

An analysis of cases reported to the CDC demonstrates a marked increase in legionellosis incidence beginning in 2003.

Legionella species cause Legionnaires’ disease and a flu-like illness, Pontiac fever, collectively known as legionellosis. In recent years, the incidence of these illnesses appears to have been increasing. To investigate the situation, researchers in Atlanta analyzed data on legionellosis cases reported to the CDC from 1990 (the first year for which detailed information is available) through 2005. All reported legionellosis cases were included in the data for 1990 through 2003; except for California, only “confirmed cases” were covered for 2004 and 2005.

From 1990 through 2005, 23,076 cases of legionellosis were reported in the U.S. The mean annual number of cases was 1268 in 1990–2002. This figure climbed by 73% — to 2198 — in 2003–2005. T…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Is Legionellosis Increasing in the U.S.?

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Reviewing Author