What is Legionella and How Do You Get it?

Understanding and preventing Legionella: Why Legionella testing matters

Legionella is a genus of sneaky, pathogenic gram-negative bacteria, with L. pneumophila being the most notorious. This troublesome species is the culprit behind legionellosis disease, which manifests as two distinct illnesses. The more severe form is Legionnaires' disease, a pneumonia-like affliction that can be quite serious. On the milder side, it can also cause Pontiac fever, a flu-like condition that, while less intense, is still worth noting. Stay informed about these bacteria to keep yourself and others healthy!

Where is Legionella mainly found?

Legionella pneumophila is commonly found in natural water sources like rivers and lakes, but usually in low, non-threatening numbers. However, these bacteria can thrive in man-made water systems like cooling towers, hot and cold water systems, and spa pools, especially if conditions are warm. In these environments, Legionella can grow rapidly and pose a serious health risk, leading to outbreaks of Legionnaires' disease. Therefore, while natural waters are generally safe, it’s essential to monitor and maintain man-made water systems to prevent bacterial growth.

How do you get infected with Legionella?

The most common way to catch Legionella is by inhaling tiny droplets of contaminated water. This can happen from sources like air conditioning cooling towers, whirlpools, hot and cold water systems, and even humidifiers. While direct human-to-human transmission isn’t a risk, outbreaks often link to various settings such as hot tubs, decorative fountains, and swimming pools. You can also contract the infection by aspirating contaminated water—when liquid accidentally enters your lungs while drinking—or through exposure to tainted soil in gardening. Staying vigilant about these potential sources can help keep Legionella at bay.

Who is most at risk from Legionnaires' disease?

Legionnaires' disease, a serious form of pneumonia, can affect anyone, but certain groups are more susceptible. Those at higher risk include:

• People over 50 years old
• Smokers or former smokers
• Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, diabetes, cancer, or chronic liver or kidney disease
• People with chronic respiratory conditions like COPD or emphysema
• Residents of long-term care facilities
• Those who have recently been hospitalized, had surgery with anesthesia, or received an organ transplant

How serious is Legionella infection?

Legionella bacteria can lead to two distinct illnesses: Pontiac fever and Legionnaires' disease. Pontiac fever is the milder form, akin to the flu, causing fever, chills, headaches, and muscle aches, but it doesn’t infect the lungs and typically resolves within a few days. In contrast, Legionnaires' disease is a more serious pneumonia that can be life-threatening if left untreated. It usually develops 2 to 10 days after exposure and often starts with symptoms like a severe headache, muscle aches, and a high fever. As the illness progresses, you might experience a persistent cough (sometimes with mucus or blood), shortness of breath, chest pain, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In some cases, confusion or mental changes can also occur. Although prompt antibiotic treatment usually cures Legionnaires' disease, some individuals may continue to face complications. Besides affecting the lungs, this disease can occasionally cause infections in wounds or other parts of the body, including the heart.

How to prevent Legionella?

To safeguard your family from Legionella bacteria, follow these crucial steps to maintain your water systems:

• Keep your hot water hot: Set your hot water temperature between 50ºC and 60ºC. If you have a hot water cylinder, it's usually pre-set; with a combination boiler, it heats water directly, so you're all set.

• Run the water regularly: If your home has been vacant for over a week, run your boiler or water heater and let hot water flow for 10 minutes upon your return.

• Clean your showerheads: Every three months, detach and clean your showerheads and hoses in hot water to prevent bacterial growth.

• Turn on taps weekly: Don’t forget to turn on all taps, including those in your garden, for at least two minutes every week to ensure water circulation.

• Water tank maintenance: Clean your water tank every six months to keep it free from contaminants and ensure your water system remains safe and reliable.

Can water be tested for Legionella?

Yes, water can be tested for Legionella to ensure safety. By collecting samples from your water system and analyzing them in a lab, you can detect both the presence and concentration of Legionella bacteria. Regular Legionella testing is essential for keeping water systems in homes, offices, and industrial spaces safe and compliant. These tests provide valuable insights into the quality of your building's water, revealing whether Legionella growth is well-controlled, poorly managed, or unchecked. Even with excellent water management practices, small amounts of Legionella can still be detected, but maintaining high water quality helps prevent its growth and spread.

In conclusion, proactive legionella testing is essential for protecting your health. By regularly testing and addressing potential risks, you can prevent serious health issues and ensure a safe living environment.