Japanese Society for Infection Prevention and Control-Online Journal

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Infection Prevention and Control for Emerging Infectious Diseases Respiratory Infection (Legionellosis, Avian Influenza, and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome)

Itaru NAKAMURA
Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Tokyo Medical University Hospital

Accurate knowledge is important for the implementation of effective infection control measures, and the same is true for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Information on these infectious diseases is often lacking, and there are several uncertainties. Legionella infection is caused by all water-related facilities and equipment and is transmitted through the aerosol generation and inhalation of water during use; there is basically no human-to-human transmission. Standard precautions are sufficient, whereas especially, the removal or disinfection of contaminated water and water-related facilities and equipment is key intervention. In avian influenza, body fluids, feces, and respiratory tract secretions of infected birds or humans are the sources of infection, and migratory birds are a factor in spreading the virus around the world. Infection occurs through direct contact with the source of infection, slaughter/cutting, cooking, and so forth without personal protective equipment. Droplet and contact precautions to standard precautions are generally implemented. The Middle East respiratory syndrome is caused by direct contact with infected dromedary camels without personal protective equipment. Droplet and contact precautions to standard precautions are generally implemented. Although there is no conclusive evidence that avian influenza or MERS is transmitted via air, many specialists recommend the additional implementation of airborne precautions and negative pressure isolation because of their high fatality rates.

Key words：legionellosis, avian influenza, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)

e-mail: task300＠tokyo-med.ac.jp

Received: March 7, 2023
Accepted: March 27, 2023

38 (4)：155─159,2023