A representative from the São João Local Health Unit (ULSSJ) confirmed that hospitalized cases in the ward are stable, with the intensive care cases requiring more attention.
On Wednesday, it was confirmed that six individuals were admitted over the weekend with legionella infection at ULSSJ.
Notices have been filed with the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (SINAVE).
The Directorate-General of Health (DGS) indicated that all patients are residents of the Porto Metropolitan Area, aged between 40 and 75.
“According to information from the Regional and Local Health Authority, the cases are under investigation, with no evidence as of now indicating occupational connection or common sources of exposure,” stated a DGS release on Wednesday.
Legionella is a bacterium that can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a form of pneumonia that, despite being potentially severe, is treatable, especially if diagnosed early.
Infections are caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Legionella pneumophila, primarily affecting the lungs and leading to pneumonia and flu-like symptoms.
Legionnaires’ disease is contracted by inhaling water vapor droplets (aerosols) small enough to carry the bacteria into the lungs, depositing it in the pulmonary alveoli.
