Legionnaire's disease is a type of pneumonia caused by a bacterial infection that inflames the lungs. It is most often contracted by breathing in water mist contaminated with the Legionella bacterium. Because the bacterium can be present in both potable and non-potable water sources, a water management specialist should always be called in to perform testing when someone develops Legionnaire's disease. Below is an introduction to this rare but extremely serious condition.

Causes

A person is infected with the Legionella bacterium through contaminated water, usually via the mist emitted by hot tubs, showers, fountains, and large-scale water and plumbing systems, such as hot water heaters, air conditioner cooling towers, and boilers installed in large buildings. But it can also be present in water used for drinking and bathing. The bacterium cannot be transmitted from person to person.

Symptoms

Many people exposed to the Legionella bacterium do not become ill. Those that do tend to be over 50 years old, smokers, or have already-diagnosed lung issues or compromised immune systems. The primary symptoms are similar to all types of pneumonia: cough, shortness of breath, fever, chills, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, and mental confusion.

If you notice any of these symptoms, get prompt treatment. Legionnaire's disease is life-threatening if not addressed in a timely manner. If often requires intensive care but can usually be remedied with certain antibiotics. Lingering effects of the disease, including fatigue and neuromuscular symptoms, can persist even months after the bacterium has been successfully eradicated.

Relationship to Water Sources

To minimize further risk of Legionnaire's disease and other waterborne illnesses, always analyze water supplies at an infected person's home and business. Legionella only grows and multiplies in water systems, so if there is one reported case of the disease, there will likely be others if no water treatment is performed. If you, an employee, or tenant has been diagnosed with the condition, contact a water management specialist to perform testing, as well as your local health department to report the outbreak.

The water management specialists at Western Environmental Management have been serving New Mexico and El Paso, TX, since 1982. In addition to expert water analysis, they provide water treatment systems designed to meet the needs of your facility. They also offer a large inventory of water boiler and cooling units. Call (575) 885-5709 or visit them online to schedule testing today.