'Stealth disease' kills four in Italy and 'no one knows the source'

A "stealth disease" has killed four in Italy - and "no one knows the source", it has been warned. The hunt is on for the source of a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak that’s killed four and hospitalised dozens in Milan, Italy, in the European Union.

At least 53 cases of the lung infection have been confirmed in two regions of northern Italy. The outbreak since April 11 appears to be limited to two areas of Milan, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

It said: "Infection risk is limited to people residing in or visiting the localised geographical area of the outbreak source." Of the 53 cases confirmed in Milan, 91 per centhad existing risk factors. This includes the four who died, who were all aged over 70 years and had comorbidities.

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It can be treated with antibiotics, oxygen and a machine to help you breathe, if you need to be hospitalised. The NHS explains: "Legionnaires' disease is a lung infection you can get from inhaling droplets of water from things like air conditioning or hot tubs. It's uncommon but it can be very serious."

"You can get Legionnaires' disease if you breathe in tiny droplets of water containing bacteria that cause the infection. It's usually caught in places like hotels, hospitals or offices where the bacteria have got into the water supply. It's less common to catch it at home," it says.

Fit For Travel warned: "Make sure you flush through showers with hot water in your accommodation if they have not been used recently and before you use them for the first time. Seek medical advice quickly if you develop a flu-like illness with a high temperature (fever), cough or shortness of breath during your stay or for up to two weeks after return home.

"You should inform any healthcare professionals that you may have been exposed to Legionnaires' disease and mention the area you visited."