Legionnaires' Disease

What is Legionnaires' Disease?

Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia (lung infection) caused by the bacteria Legionella pneumophila. This bacteria is naturally found in wet environments such as lakes and streams.

How is Legionnaires' Disease Transmitted?

Legionnaires' disease usually occurs when small water droplets containing Legionella bacteria are inhaled.

These droplets can originate from sources such as air conditioning systems, hot tubs, showers, and large water systems. The most common places where the disease is seen include hotels, large conference centers, hot tubs, thermal pools, areas with decorative fountains, banks, and offices.

Since home and car cooling or heating systems do not use water, the probability of catching the disease in these environments is extremely low. It is not transmitted from person to person.

What are the Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease?

The most common symptoms include high fever, shortness of breath, severe cough, headache, chills, muscle aches, and diarrhea. There are effective treatments for the disease, and early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment.

Who is at Risk for Legionnaires' Disease?

Not everyone exposed to the bacteria will get sick, and the disease is not spread from person to person. However, the risk is higher for people over the age of 50, people with cancer, people taking immunosuppressant medications, smokers, and those with diabetes, chronic kidney or liver disease. Recent travel is also a risk factor for the disease.

How is Legionnaires' Disease Diagnosed?

Diagnosing Legionnaires' disease involves laboratory tests. The most common diagnostic tests are urine tests, blood tests, and chest X-rays.

Treatment of Legionnaires' Disease

Antibiotics are used to treat Legionnaires' disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications. Patients with serious illness are treated in the hospital, usually in intensive care units. When diagnosed in time, the disease can be successfully treated with simple antibiotics.

Preventing Legionnaires' Disease

To prevent Legionnaires' disease:

• Clean water systems regularly: It is important to regularly disinfect water sources such as cooling towers, hot tubs, water supply systems and air conditioners.
• Don't smoke: Smoking damages your lungs and increases the risk of infection.