In a concerning incident reported recently, a British traveler named Donna Jobling from West Hull has been hospitalized after contracting Legionnaires’ disease during her vacation in Greece. The 57-year-old woman is currently receiving intensive care at the Venizeleio Hospital in Heraklion on the island of Crete after developing a serious lung infection. This unfortunate event occurred as she was enjoying an all-inclusive holiday with her husband, Sid, who is 69 years old, and another couple, Paula and Nicholas Mason.
Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling water droplets contaminated with the Legionella bacteria, is often contracted in places like hotels, hospitals, or other facilities where water systems can become contaminated. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, fever, chest pains, and serious respiratory issues. It poses a particular risk to smokers, individuals over the age of 50, and those who are immunocompromised.
The exact source of this outbreak has yet to be determined. EasyJet Holidays, the travel agency that facilitated the trip, has taken precautions by relocating other guests from the hotel where Ms. Jobling was staying, expressing their regret regarding her condition. A spokesperson from the company stated: “We’re so sorry to hear that Ms. Jobling is unwell, and we’re continuing to support her and her family in every way we can.”
Ms. Jobling’s health crisis started on June 5, when she developed a chest infection that quickly escalated into acute respiratory failure and subsequent pneumonia. Her niece, Klaire Keita, detailed the family’s difficult situation, saying they are uncertain about her recovery but are doing their best to support her. Ms. Keita described her aunt as “the best person you could ever hope to meet,” and noted that Ms. Jobling is currently stable but remains under constant medical supervision.
While Mr. Sid and Ms. Jobling were enjoying their vacation, the Masons returned to the UK on June 12, the date they were all supposed to fly back together. Ms. Mason expressed her devastation about having to leave her friend behind, remarking how Ms. Jobling had been looking healthy when they started their trip. She acknowledged that her husband and Mr. Nicholas Mason had planned the holiday as a surprise for the women, and it has turned into a distressing experience.
Following the diagnosis of Ms. Jobling, the Greek health ministry issued an alert to hoteliers in Crete, urging them to enhance their vigilance regarding water quality monitoring for human consumption, particularly concerning Legionella risks. The local health authorities are collaborating with the affected hotel as part of the response to this situation, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures.
As an emergency alert was declared on the island by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, a Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson said they were actively supporting the family of Ms. Jobling and were in contact with local authorities to monitor the situation.
Dealing with Legionnaires’ disease involves understanding that the bacteria can thrive in air conditioning systems, spa pools, and hot tubs, presenting considerable public health implications. The ongoing investigation into the outbreak will play a crucial role in determining the necessary actions to safeguard other tourists and prevent similar incidents in the future.