Holidaymakers urged to pack small item in case as Brit catches Legionnaires' disease abroad
Holidaymakers heading abroad this summer are being urged to pack one thing into their suitcases as a Brit was struck down by Legionnaires' disease. Donna Jobling, 57, from Hull, was in intensive care from June 11 after contracting potentially deadly lung disease.
Doctors had to put her into an induced coma and she awoke on June 25, reported the BBC. The disease is caught by inhaling droplets of water that contain Legionella bacteria.
The Brit was on an all-inclusive break in Crete when she became unwell. While it's not known if the legionella source was the hotel, it is reportedly cooperating with local health authorities, while the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has issued an emergency alert in response to the confirmed case.
And Brits are being warned of the serious - and often overlooked - risk of Legionnaires' disease this summer, particularly in warm locations.
Legionella grows best in water between the temperatures of 20 to 45C. The bacteria can be found in a wide range of man-made water systems, including taps, showers, air conditioning units, pools and hot tubs.
And while it can exist throughout the entire year, the heat in summer months mean it's a particularly high-risk period, especially when combined with stagnant water in systems that have not been used regularly - such as hot tubs, spa pools, and holiday homes.
Legionella authority Hydrohawk said the latest case is sadly not isolated. Greg Rankin, CEO, said: "There have been multiple reports of Legionella outbreaks in hotels abroad and on cruise ships in recent years.
"The tragic part is, many of these could have been prevented with earlier detection, faster diagnosis, and prompt action. Of course, the responsibility lies with hotel and resort operators to maintain proper water management and testing protocols.
"However, we would urge British travellers to exercise caution when using holiday accommodation – particularly to countries where water safety legislation may not be as robust as it is in the UK."
Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease
Early symptoms of Legionnaires' disease, which may show from two to six days after infection, include:
Muscle aches
Tiredness
Headaches
Dry cough
Fever
HydroHawk recommends packing a small item that will allow you to carry out a quick, simple test.
Greg added: "For added peace of mind, a simple rapid Legionella testing kit can offer reassurance and help ensure a safer stay.'
HydroHawk offers rapid Legionella testing kits that deliver accurate results within just 25 minutes.
Greg adds: 'Going on holiday should be a time to relax and enjoy, not worry about hidden health risks. Though it may not be the first thing that springs to mind when it comes to packing for the summer getaway, taking simple precautions against Legionella by investing in a rapid testing kit could make all the difference.
"After all, everyone deserves peace of mind on their long awaited summer break.'
You can purchase a HydroHawk Legionella Swab Test for £25.99, here.
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