Legionellosis is a potentially serious infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus *Legionella* (*Legionella pneumophila* accounts for 90% of detected cases).
Under current legislation, ISSeP is responsible for inspecting cooling towers located at business sites, in coordination with the Wallonia Public Service’s Department of Police and Inspections (DPC). Each year, 60 companies undergo inspections involving over 169 analyses for *Legionella* spp. and serogroup identification in cases of *Legionella pneumophila*.
Site visits also include an administrative check, water sampling, and in-situ measurements (conductivity, turbidity, pH, etc.).
ISSeP may also intervene at the request of AVIQ if *Legionella* contamination is suspected at an institution or a private residence.
The severity of the disease depends on the level of exposure, the specific *Legionella* strain involved, the individual’s health status, and other factors.
It is a disease that must be reported to AVIQ within 24 hours. An investigation involving the patient is then conducted (covering places visited, travel history, etc.). AVIQ provides recommendations and may request that samples be taken from the patient’s home.
Contact : Nadine Burlion 04 221 83 05 – n.burlion@issep.be – d.schrooten@issep.be