Legionnaires’ disease is a form of bacterial pneumonia that is rare but serious because it causes lung inflammation, which can lead to serious breathing difficulties. It was first discovered in 1976 after an outbreak occurred among those who attended a convention for the American Legion in Philadelphia.
The outbreak was caused by the legionella bacterium that multiplied in the cooling tower of the hotel’s air conditioning system that hosted the meeting. Once the air conditioning was switched on, the disease spread through the building and was inhaled by those who came into close contact with it.
There have still been incidences of Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks across the globe since the discovery of the legionella disease, but the source of infection has become easier to trace as knowledge of this bacteria and the environment it thrives in has improved.
Early signs of Legionnaires disease include headaches. Body aches and muscle pains can accompany these headaches, and a fever is often present too.
After two to three days of being infected with the legionella bacterium, advanced symptoms can begin to develop. These usually include respiratory distress such as breathlessness, coughing, and wheezing. Chest pain is also common due to inflammation in the lungs which also often fill with mucus that can sometimes be bloody.
Nausea, vomiting, loose stools, and general gastric discomfort can also be experienced. This disease can even affect the mental health of the sufferer, with confusion and behavioural changes also being present.
Legionnaires primarily affect the lungs, but it can also lead to infections in other parts of the body, such as the heart. If this occurs, then symptoms such as chest pain can be caused both by inflammation in the lungs and a developing heart problem.
The bacterium Legionella pneumophila is behind most outbreaks of this disease. When breathed in, it survives in the lungs and multiplies deep within them. The bacteria irritate the lung lining, causing inflammation and a build-up of mucus. This chain of events eventually leads to breathing difficulties and other already-mentioned symptoms.
These species of bacteria survive in soil and water but rarely cause infections in humans in their natural habitat. It is when they grow in water systems, including air conditioning and cooling towers, that the risk of human infection grows significantly.
Possible breeding grounds for the Legionella bacteria include hot tubes, swimming pools, sources of human drinking water, and decorative fountains. All can produce bacteria-laden microscopic water droplets that can be inhaled.
The elderly, those with weakened immune systems, or those suffering from respiratory conditions such as asthma are at greater risk of developing severe symptoms if infected by this disease. For these individuals, and even some with no underlying health conditions, the infection can sometimes become life-threatening.
The sooner Legionnaires’ disease is diagnosed, the better. Blood tests, chest X-rays, and a sputum test can all be used to diagnose this infection. Lab tests can confirm the presence of the bacteria in the body.
Individuals who have been infected with the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease should seek medical attention immediately once symptoms appear. A seven to ten course of antibiotics administered in a hospital is needed for the best chance of recovery and avoidance of any complications linked to this infection.
Preventing Legionnaires outbreaks requires regular inspections of water supplies, cooling towers, air conditioning systems, and other environments where the Legionella bacterium can thrive. Disinfecting these man-made water systems regularly can kill and prevent any future growth of this potentially life-threatening disease.