PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803352
PUBLISHER: Prescient & Strategic Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1803352
The global legionella testing market was valued at USD 330.2 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 650.7 million by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 9% from 2025 to 2032. The increasing prevalence of Legionnaire's disease, pneumonia, and other legionella-related illnesses, combined with the rising awareness about waterborne diseases, is driving the demand for legionella testing solutions. The disease, caused by the Legionella bacteria, spreads through contaminated water droplets and can lead to severe respiratory conditions, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with compromised immune systems.
Technological advancements in diagnostic methods, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and urine antigen testing (UAT), are further contributing to market growth. These innovations enable faster, more accurate testing, which is essential for controlling outbreaks and ensuring public health safety. Additionally, the growing awareness and regulatory push for routine testing in public and private buildings, including healthcare facilities and water treatment plants, is fueling the adoption of legionella testing solutions.
Key Insights
Technological Advancements in Testing: The development of rapid PCR and UAT methods has significantly enhanced the speed and accuracy of legionella testing. PCR, which remains the most widely used method for detecting legionella, provides results in as little as one day, offering high sensitivity and specificity. New methods are reducing the time for diagnosis, which is critical for controlling outbreaks quickly. For example, in 2023, EMSL Analytical Inc. launched a rapid PCR method for legionella detection in the environment to prevent the spread of Legionnaires' disease.
Rising Incidence of Legionnaire's Disease: The incidence of Legionnaire's disease is rising globally, particularly in regions with aging populations and outdated plumbing systems. The EU reports an incidence of 2.5 per 100,000 people, while the U.S. sees around 6,000 cases annually. Increased awareness and government regulations are encouraging more frequent testing in both healthcare and non-healthcare environments, such as hotels and office buildings.
Water Testing Dominates Market: Water testing accounted for 80% of the market share in 2024, as it is the standard method for detecting Legionella in cooling towers, plumbing systems, and industrial water supplies. The growing emphasis on water quality, combined with stricter regulations, drives the demand for reliable testing methods to ensure safe drinking water and prevent outbreaks.
IVD is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. UAT provides rapid results within 15 minutes and is easy to perform, making it a preferred method for diagnosing Legionnaires' disease, especially in healthcare settings.
Increase in Diagnostic Testing at Healthcare Facilities: The demand for legionella testing solutions is increasing in healthcare settings, with diagnostic centers holding the largest market share of 35% in 2024. Hospitals and clinics are particularly focused on early diagnosis to prevent outbreaks, which has led to higher testing volumes. Additionally, public awareness campaigns on waterborne diseases have resulted in more proactive testing in various facilities, including senior living centers.
North America Leads the Market: North America holds the largest share of the market, accounting for 40% in 2024, due to the high incidence of Legionnaire's disease, extensive healthcare infrastructure, and growing regulatory emphasis on water testing. The U.S. alone sees thousands of hospital admissions due to Legionnaires' disease every year, highlighting the need for efficient and rapid diagnostic solutions.
Europe's Fast Growth: Europe is expected to grow at the highest CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period. The region's growing awareness of waterborne diseases and the increasing adoption of accredited testing methods are key drivers. In 2022, SPIE UK received ISO/IEC 17020 accreditation from the UKAS for Legionella risk management, driving further demand for testing services.
Asia-Pacific (APAC) is also seeing increased adoption due to rapid urbanization, aging populations, and improving healthcare infrastructure, particularly in countries like China and India. Increased government investments in healthcare and water treatment are expected to boost demand for legionella testing solutions in the region.