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Legionnaires Disease

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is Legionnaires disease?

Legionnaires disease (LD) is a lung infection caused by Legionella bacteria.

How is LD spread?

Legionella bacteria can be found in many water sources. You can get LD by breathing in steam or water droplets that contain Legionella bacteria. LD cannot be passed from one person to another. LD can occur in outbreaks. Outbreaks happen when 2 or more people in the same place develop LD at almost the same time. Legionella bacteria may be found in any of the following:

What increases my risk for LD?

What are the signs and symptoms of LD?

LD symptoms usually appear 2 to 10 days after you are exposed to the bacteria. You may have any of the following:

How is LD diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms. He or she may also ask about the places or countries you have visited in the last 2 weeks. He or she may also ask if you visit spas or use hot tubs often. Tell him or her if anyone in your home or workplace has had a recent lung infection. You may need any of the following:

How is LD treated?

Healthcare providers will give you antibiotics to treat your bacterial infection. The antibiotics may be given through an IV for the first 7 to 10 days. You may also need to continue taking antibiotics by mouth for a period of time.

How can I prevent LD?

You may be able to kill the bacteria that cause LD by regularly cleaning the places they grow. You may need to use a special cleaning fluid to kill the bacteria. Ask your healthcare provider which cleaning fluids you should use.

What can I do to prevent the spread of germs?


Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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