Was there an outbreak of Legionnaires disease?

Legionella was discovered after an outbreak in 1976 among people who went to a Philadelphia convention of the American Legion. Those who were affected suffered from a type of pneumonia that eventually became known as Legionnaires’ disease.

What is the most common way of contracting Legionnaires disease?

Most people catch Legionnaires’ disease by inhaling the bacteria from water or soil. Older adults, smokers and people with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to Legionnaires’ disease.

What is Pontiac fever?

Pontiac fever is a milder infection than Legionnaires’ disease. Symptoms are primarily fever and muscle aches. Symptoms can begin between a few hours to 3 days after being exposed to the bacteria and usually last less than a week.

Where is Legionella pneumophila found?

The bacterium Legionella pneumophila and related bacteria are common in natural water sources such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs, but usually in low numbers. They may also be found in purpose-built water systems such as cooling towers, evaporative condensers, hot and cold water systems and spa pools.

What are the first symptoms of Legionnaires disease?

The symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease are similar to the symptoms of the flu:

• high temperature, feverishness and chills;
• cough;
• muscle pains;
• headache; and leading on to.
• pneumonia, very occasionally.
• diarrhoea and signs of mental confusion.

Can you get Legionnaires disease from an air conditioner?

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection you can get from inhaling droplets of water from things like air conditioning or hot tubs. It’s uncommon but it can be very serious.

Can you get Legionnaires disease from a shower?

The simple answer to the question: ‘can you catch Legionnaires’ disease from a shower? ‘ is yes. Legionnaires’ disease is caught by inhaling tiny droplets of water containing legionella bacterium. It is very rare that you will catch it at home, in ponds, rivers or lakes, or by drinking water.

How do you prevent Legionnaires in the shower?

Showerheads should be regularly disinfected about four times a year. Raise the temperature to 60°C or higher. Temperatures above 60°C will kill Legionella bacteria so make sure that the temperature of the hot water in your boiler/cylinder is set at a minimum of 60°C.