Definition & Bedeutung von "legionnaires'disease"

What is "legionnaires' disease"?

Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by a bacterium called Legionella pneumophila. It usually spreads when people breathe in bacteria-contaminated water droplets from places like cooling towers, hot tubs, or air conditioning systems. Symptoms of legionnaires' disease often include high fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, headache, and shortness of breath. In serious cases, it can lead to complications such as respiratory failure or kidney failure, which can be life-threatening. Immediate treatment with antibiotics is essential for recovery. Legionnaires' disease is not spread from person to person and is most common in older adults, smokers, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Preventive measures include proper maintenance of water systems and regular cleaning and disinfection of water sources where Legionella bacteria may grow.