Legionnaires' disease, (LD), Legionellosis

Legionnaires' disease, (LD), is the more severe form of legionellosis and is characterized by pneumonia. The illness is caused by Legionella pneumophila and other Legionella species. L.pneumophila,is an ubiquitous aquatic organism that thrives in warm environments (32- 45C)

It is transmitted by inhalation of contaminated aerosols from devices such as cooling towers, showers, and faucets, and aspiration of contaminated water.

Person-to-person transmission does not occur.

Manifestation: After an incubation period for two to ten days, illness is characterized by:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough, which may be dry or may produce sputum.
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea occasionally
• Death occurs in 10%-15% of LD cases

Diagnose and treatment: Diagnose is bases on blood-tests, urine-tests and x-rays. Treatment with antibiotcs is available. Vaccine: Not available.

Optimal methods for prevention of legionellosis are not known, and source of most sporadic cases is unknown.

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