Investigation ongoing after newborn diagnosed with legionella in Nicosia

A 21-day-old infant is in critical but stable condition at Makarios Hospital after contracting Legionella bacteria at a private maternity clinic in Nicosia. The Ministry of Health has launched a comprehensive investigation to identify the source of the infection, which has led to the temporary closure of the specific ward and floor where the newborn was treated. Health authorities have brought in an international expert to assist with the medical management of the case and the epidemiological investigation, as other infants in the facility are currently under medical observation.

Preliminary laboratory tests conducted on samples taken on October 7, prior to the diagnosis, indicated the presence of the bacteria in two points of the clinic's water supply system. Final results from the State General Laboratory are expected by Thursday. Microbiologist Dr. Michalis Mendris emphasized that while finding the bacteria in the network is a crucial step, the investigation is now focused on determining the exact mechanism of transmission from the environment to the infant. The Ministry continues to monitor the situation, confirming that no other cases linked to the facility have been identified so far, while experts reiterate that Legionella is not transmitted from person to person.