Legionnaire's Disease: Overview
Legionnaire's Disease is a form of lung infection caused by the bacterium Legionella pheumophila. The condition causes a severe form of pneumonia. Legionnaire's Disease derives its name from the first outbreak of the illness at a Philadelphia hotel during a 1976 American Legion convention. The outbreak affected more than 175 people and killed 34.
Legionella pheumophila can often be traced to contaminated water in cooling towers of air conditioning systems in large buildings. The bacteria can also be found in excavation sites and newly planted soil.
Legionnaire's Disease requires hospitalization so that the patient may receive the necessary treatments, including antibiotics, intravenous liquids, and supplemental oxygen. Symptoms of Legionnaire's Disease include, but may not be limited to, headache, fatigue, fever, and cough.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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