Multiple regression as a preventive tool for determining the risk of Legionella spp.

Objective. To determine the interrelationship between health & hygiene conditions for prevention of legionellosis, the composition of materials used in water distribution systems, the water origin and Legionella pneumophila risk. Material and methods. Include a descriptive study and multiple regression analysis on a sample of golf course sprinkler irrigation systems (n=31) pertaining to hotels located on the Costa del Sol (Malaga, Spain). The study was carried out in 2009. Results. Presented a significant lineal relation, with all the independent variables contributing significantly (p<0.05) to the model's fit. The relationship between water type and the risk of Legionella, as well as the material composition and the latter, is lineal and positive. In contrast, the relationship between health-hygiene conditions and Legionella risk is lineal and negative. Conclusion. The characterization of Legionella pneumophila concentration, as defined by the risk in water and through use of the predictive method, can contribute to the consideration of new influence variables in the development of the agent, resulting in improved control and prevention of the disease.