Legionnaire's disease and its public health implications

Abstract

Infectious diseases are a very important Public Health issue. Legionnaire's disease is an infectious disease that has been attaining increasing importance since its discovery, mostly because of its tendency to occur in outbreaks and its high fatality rate. This dissertation includes an overall view of Legionnaire's disease, including its identification, diagnosis, Public Health aspects, and methods of control. These aspects of Legionnaire's disease are also discussed with particular reference to Malta. The implications that this disease could have on the tourist industry in particular, is one of utmost importance. A high level of awareness needs to be maintained and preventive measures constantly taken to ensure Public Health. As part of this dissertation, a small survey was carried out to roughly indicate the level of awareness of this disease and its methods of prevention among hotel establishments, as suggested in the Maltese Code of Practice.