What is Legionnaires’ Disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection caused by inhaling water droplets from air conditioning or hot tubs. It’s uncommon, but it can be deadly.

An estimated 2-9 % of pneumonia cases acquired outside of a hospital are caused by Legionnaires’ disease.

In the United States, an estimated 8,000 to 18,000 cases require hospitalisation each year. Although it can happen at any time of year, it is more common in the summer and fall.

It was discovered by scientists in 1977, six months after a mysterious outbreak sickened 180 people and killed 29 at an American Legion convention in a Philadelphia hotel.

Legionella pneumophila is the bacteria that causes it. You might not get sick even if you come into contact with legionella.

People who are 50 or older and former or current smokers are more likely to get sick. People with chronic lung disease and those with weakened immune systems

A high fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, and headaches are the most common Legionnaires’ Disease signs and symptoms.