Legionella at the Mother and Child Institute: Is Children’s Health Truly Protected?
Imagine going to a healthcare facility, the very place where the youngest are cared for, only to find out that a dangerous bacterium called legionella has been discovered there! Yes, you read that right — a bacterium that can cause severe pneumonia and other complications. This is exactly what happened at the Mother and Child Institute “Dr Vukan Čupić” in Belgrade.
What happened?
Four weeks ago, legionella bacteria were detected in the Institute. Immediate and necessary measures were taken — disinfection of the water system, continuous cleaning, and flushing of pipes with chemical agents. The institution is operating at full capacity, and except for one child who fell ill and was treated with antibiotics within five days, no other infections have been reported.
Why is this important?
Legionella is no ordinary bacterium. It thrives in water systems such as hot and cold water supplies, cooling towers, fountains, and even whirlpool baths. Temperatures between 20 and 45 degrees Celsius are ideal for its growth. In conditions of water stagnation and biofilm formation, legionella multiplies and can spread through aerosols — tiny water droplets we inhale.
Is it dangerous?
Yes, it can be! Legionella can cause a disease known as Legionnaires’ disease, which starts with headaches and can progress to severe pneumonia. However, it is important to know that the disease is not transmitted by droplets or direct contact but only by inhaling aerosols contaminated with the bacteria.
How did the Institute respond?
The Institute’s director, Professor Dr. Vladislav Vukomanović, stated that the measures have been effective and patients are protected. The disinfection process is expected to be completed tomorrow, and the institution continues to operate at full capacity. The Belgrade City Institute of Public Health confirmed that preventive measures have prevented new cases.
What can we learn from this?
This is a clear example of how crucial regular maintenance and disinfection of water systems in healthcare facilities are. One slip-up can endanger the health of the most vulnerable — children. Although the Institute acted swiftly, the question remains: how many such cases are actually hidden or unnoticed?
Conclusion
Legionella at the Mother and Child Institute is not just a story about one bacterium. It is a wake-up call for all of us to be more vigilant about hygiene standards, especially where children are concerned. Has everything really been done right? Are the measures sufficient? Or is this just the tip of the iceberg?
If you have similar experiences or thoughts on this topic, drop a comment below — let’s see how much we really care about our children’s health!
