Newborn infant in critical condition after Legionella infection in Nicosia

A 21-day-old infant is currently in critical but stable condition at the Makarios Hospital in Nicosia after being diagnosed with Legionella. The infection was linked to a private maternity clinic in Nicosia, where preliminary laboratory tests detected the presence of the bacteria at two points in the building's water network. Following the discovery, the Ministry of Health has closed the affected ward and floor of the private facility, and all other infants previously housed there have been relocated to other hospitals for safety.

Health authorities are conducting an intensive investigation to determine the exact source of the infection, with samples collected from both the clinic and the infant's home. An international expert has arrived in Cyprus to assist in the management of the case and the ongoing epidemiological inquiry. Final test results from the State General Laboratory are expected by Wednesday or Thursday. Medical officials noted that while Legionella does not spread from person to person, all infants who were present at the clinic are being closely monitored for symptoms due to the incubation period of the bacterium.

Experts emphasized that the risk of Legionella in hospital water systems cannot be entirely eliminated despite strict preventive protocols, as the bacteria can survive in stagnant water or complex plumbing infrastructure. The Ministry of Health stated that they are prepared to enforce stricter safety measures if deemed necessary after the investigation concludes.