Skip to content
Breaking News

Breaking News

  • Home
  • World
  • Business
  • Health
  • Entertainment
  • Life Style
  • Sports
  • Toggle search form

What is Legionnaires’ disease? causes and symptoms explained | The Express Tribune

Posted on August 13, 2024 By Admin No Comments on What is Legionnaires’ disease? causes and symptoms explained | The Express Tribune


Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila. It was first identified following a significant outbreak at an American Legion convention in Philadelphia in 1976, and since then, it has become a recognized public health concern, particularly in environments where water systems are not properly maintained.

Causes of Legionnaires’ disease

The Legionella bacteria thrive in warm water environments, often found in man-made water systems such as:

  • Hot tubs and spas
  • Cooling towers used in air-conditioning systems for large buildings
  • Hot water tanks and heaters
  • Large plumbing systems
  • Decorative fountains and water features

Legionnaires’ disease is typically contracted by inhaling small droplets of water or mist contaminated with Legionella bacteria. Importantly, the disease does not spread from person to person; it is primarily associated with environmental exposure, underscoring the critical need for regular maintenance of water systems to prevent outbreaks.

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ Disease

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease generally appear between 2 to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria. The illness often begins with flu-like symptoms and can quickly progress to more severe respiratory issues. Common symptoms include:

  • High fever: A sudden, high fever, often reaching 104°F (40°C) or higher.
  • Chills: Accompanying the fever, chills are a frequent symptom.
  • Cough: A persistent cough, which may produce mucus or, in some cases, blood.
  • Muscle aches: Significant body and muscle aches, similar to those experienced with the flu.
  • Headache: Severe headaches are common among those affected.
  • Shortness of breath: As the infection progresses, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath can occur.
  • Chest pain: Some individuals may experience chest pain, which can be mistaken for cardiac issues.
  • Nausea and diarrhea: Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also be present.
  • Confusion or cognitive impairment: In severe cases, confusion, disorientation, or other cognitive changes may occur, particularly in older adults.

Who is at risk?

Certain groups are at a higher risk of contracting Legionnaires’ disease, including older adults (usually over 50 years of age), smokers, and individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with chronic lung diseases or conditions that suppress the immune system. In these populations, the disease can be more severe and even life-threatening, making early diagnosis and treatment critical.



Source link

Health Tags:Legionnaires disease, Legionnaires Symptoms, Lincoln nh

Post navigation

Previous Post: The ‘superfood’ taking over fields in northern India
Next Post: City’s Foden, Haaland lead PFA POTY shortlist

More Related Articles

Lilly to build $2.5 billion Germany plant as obesity drug demand soars | Reuters News Agency Health
Caroline Kennedy Calls RFK Jr. a ‘Predator’ in Letter to Senators Health
Listeria outbreak kills three adults in Washington state, health department confirms Health
Healthy beginnings: the organic baby food shift | The Express Tribune Health
Trump Cuts Target Next Generation of Scientists and Public Health Leaders Health
Eli Lilly’s weight loss drug slashes the risk of developing diabetes in long-term trial Health

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recent Posts

  • Ryanair to increase oversized bag bonus
  • Man receives world’s first pig lung transplant in groundbreaking medical procedure
  • India cricket ends $43.6m sponsorship after online gambling ban: report
  • Morgan Wallen joins artists pushing back on Grammys
  • Zara Noor Abbas, Zahid Ahmed bring grace and grit to Dil Dhoondta Hai Phir Wohi | The Express Tribune

Categories

  • Business
  • Entertainment
  • Health
  • Life Style
  • Sports
  • World

Copyright © 2025 Breaking News.

Powered by PressBook Blog WordPress theme