What is legionnaires’ disease?
WHAT IS LEGIONNAIRES' DISEASE?
A type of pneumonia caused by a bacterial infection of the lungs.
HOW DO YOU GET IT?
Exposure to legionella bacteria. There are two common types in NSW, one is usually found in air conditioning cooling towers and the other in soil.
It's not spread from person to person.
WHO IS AT RISK?
Middle-aged and older people, particularly smokers or people with chronic lung disease.
SYMPTOMS:
Fever, chills, a dry cough and shortness of breath. Some people also have muscle aches, headaches, tiredness, loss of appetite and diarrhoea.
TREATMENT:
Antibiotics.
PROGNOSIS:
Most people recover, but it can occasionally be fatal.
PREVENTION:
Regular inspection, disinfection and maintenance of cooling towers and plumbing systems. Reduce exposure to potting mix dust by wearing gloves and a mask.
Source: NSW Health
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