Flu epidemic over but Legionnaire's is back

The condition is not life-threatening for any of the victims and some have already returned home following the appropriate treatment.

However, with a mortality rate close to 15 per cent, the disease, is ranked among the 30 listed diseases that are systematically investigated by the state’s health services. It is unclear at the moment the exact origin of the contamination; a cooling tower in Nice is suspected.

Companies are encouraged to check their heating and air conditioning systems for signs of the bacteria as it is generally spread by the droplets through the air conditioning equipment, storage tanks, tubs, shower heads and faucets. The disease does not spread from one person to another.

Symptoms to watch for

An outbreak of fever and a persistent cough may be accompanied by the onset of appetite and muscle aches. The condition can rapidly worsen. People are advised to see their doctor if symptoms appear. On a positive note the H1N1 flu epidemic is over. The number of cases of the fever reported to doctors has fallen below the epidemic level for the past two weeks. However, people are still encouraged to get the vaccination if they haven’t already. Health authorities say the flu has killed 240 people in mainland France.

PF