What Is Walking Pneumonia?
5. Legionnaires’ Disease
Legionnaires’ disease or legionellosis is a condition caused by Legionella bacteria resulting in atypical pneumonia. The bacteria is often found in fresh water and can be found in cooling towers of large air conditioners, hot water tanks, and hot tubs.
It spreads by breathing in the airborne water droplets containing the bacteria or aspiration of contaminated water. It generally does not spread from person to person and tends to affect those with a poor immune system, chronic lung disease, older age, or smokers. Without a vaccine, the disease can be prevented by having a good maintenance of the water systems. It can be treated with antibiotics such as doxycycline, azithromycin, and fluoroquinolones. Admission is generally required.
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