Linz authorities identify potential Legionella source

Health authorities in Linz, Austria, have identified a potential source of a Legionella outbreak following 22 confirmed cases of the bacterial infection. The Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES), along with regional and municipal authorities, reported that high levels of Legionella were detected in the cooling towers of a company located on Wiener Straße.

The infection, which can cause severe pneumonia, has affected residents and visitors to the Linz area. While the discovery of the bacteria in the cooling towers provides a lead, officials stated that a definitive link between the facility and the patients is still being established. To confirm this, investigators are comparing the genetic material of the bacteria found in the samples with that of the infected individuals.

The City of Linz has implemented immediate measures at the affected facility to prevent further spread and ensure safe operation. More than 100 samples have been collected as part of the ongoing investigation.