Buenos Aires, Sep 4 : The disease that has afflicted 11 people and killed the lives of four in Argentina could be caused through Legionella which is the bacteria responsible for Legionnaires disease, media reports suggest.On Saturday, health officials reported that Legionella bacteria was found in testing of four samples including three of which were respiratory, and one biopsies from one of the patients who died according to NBC News.
“The theory is that it’s an outbreak of legionella pneumophila.” Carla Vizzotti, the health minister of the country health minister was quoted as declaring in an announcement.
Data is still in the early stages and awaiting the an official assessment, Vizzotti added.
The Legionella bacteria can be passed on by breathing in tiny drops of water or swallow water that contains the bacteria into their lungs, as per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
According to the report, it can lead to Legionnaires disease, a serious form of pneumonia.
The 11 patients associated with the Luz Medica clinic include three patients who were under observation as well as receiving treatment.
There was a man aged 64 with preexisting medical conditions or comorbidities who was admitted to hospital in serious condition; and an 81-year old man, who was also admitted to the hospital in serious health.
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