Investigation of a Neonatal Legionnaires' Disease Case in a Southern Taiwan Newborn Ward, 2023

Shu-Ting Li^*, Min-Nan Hung, Yu-Zhu Wang, Ching-Li Lin, Hui-Chen Lin, Min-Cheng Lin

2026 Vol.42 No.3

Correspondence Author： Shu-Ting Li^*

Abstract：

        Legionella spp. are rarely identified as the causative agent in neonatal pneumonia. In this report, we describe a case of neonatal Legionnaires’ disease in which the patient’s isolates were identical to those from the reverse osmosis water system of a newborn ward, as confirmed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. The Taiwan Centers for Disease Control collaborated with local health authorities to provide on-site infection-control audits, environmental management, and contact tracing. No additional cases were linked to this ward. This report highlights the need for heightened surveillance for legionellosis in neonatal pneumonia and the importance of raising awareness about nosocomial infections. Regular proactive maintenance and a comprehensive disinfection program for the entire water system are crucial to mitigate the risk of Legionella spp. growth.

Keywords：Legionnaires' disease, respiratory pathogen panel nucleic acid qualitative amplification test, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), environmental survey, nosocomial infection