METHODS: Outbreak investigation.
METHODS: A multi-agency team investigated links between the cases of legionellosis using detailed interviews, movement mapping, a timeline and extensive environmental sampling.
RESULTS: The investigation found evidence that individuals affected by legionella during this outbreak had been in, or near (within 800 m), sullage tanks in Rosyth Dockyard within a period of 4 months.
CONCLUSIONS: In the absence of laboratory isolation of Legionella spp. from the human cases, it was impossible to state definitely that a previously unrecognized source of environmental legionella aerosolization was responsible for the outbreak. However, strong epidemiological and environmental evidence would support this hypothesis.