Yesterday, 5. December 2025, water samples taken during a routine bathing water survey by the Biological Station in the pools of the thermal spa showed a positive result with regard to legionella. Since the state of Burgenland was also informed of a Legionella disease in a person who stayed in November in the AVITA Therme Bad Tatzmannsdorf as well as in the associated hotel, the responsible district headquarters Oberwart has ordered the immediate official closure of the thermal spa. The state of Burgenland calls on all persons who have been in the thermal spa for the past 14 days to observe their health status.
Legionella is a type of bacteria that spreads through finely atomized water in the air. They can cause different symptoms in humans – from flu-like symptoms to severe pneumonia. The incubation period after infection with the bacteria is 2 to 10 days, according to AGES.
What are Legionella?
Legionella are globally distributed environmental germs, which in small numbers are a natural component of surface waters and groundwater.
Legionella hardly reproduces in cold water. But even with high temperatures, the heat-loving, but heat-sensitive bacteria can be kept in check. Therefore, hot water supply systems should be heated at regular intervals to temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius.
Drinking water contaminated with Legionella is not a risk. However, there is a health hazard if Legionella-containing water is inhaled as an aerosol (water spray, for example, when showering) with the air. In particular, showers, evaporative cooling systems (wet cooling towers) and poorly maintained whirlpools pose a potential danger. Branched water systems of buildings such as hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, hotels and baths pose a particularly increased risk.
Air conditioning systems in cars and offices should also be regularly maintained and cleaned to prevent germ formation. Shower heads, faucets and fittings that can be removed should be decalcified and disinfected at least every six months.
In Austria, all cases of suspicion, illness and death must be reported!
Legionella disease is diagnosed by a doctor using a urine test or test of sputum (secretions from the airways).
Eisenstadt, 06. December 2025
Landesmedienservice Burgenland
7000 Eisenstadt, Landhaus, Europaplatz 1
Tel: +432682/600
post.presse@bgld.gv.at
www.burgenland.at