Legionella in water – everything you need to know about the dangerous bacteria

The topic of legionella has unexpectedly emerged, causing great concern in society. It is no surprise, as the media reports daily on new infections and deaths caused by the dangerous bacterium known as legionella pneumophila. If you want to learn more about symptoms, safety measures, or treatment, be sure to read our article.

What is the legionella bacteria?

Legionella is a type of Gram-negative bacteria from the family Legionellaceae. An exceptionally interesting feature of these microorganisms is theirthe ability to thrive in aquatic environments, as well as to colonize air conditioning, ventilation, and plumbing systems. They are small and inconspicuous under a microscope, yet their potential impact on human health is already significant.

Legionella bacteria naturally inhabit aquatic environments such as lakes, rivers, and sometimes even soil. However, these are not the only places where they can be found. They can also appearalso in water supply systems, swimming pools, jacuzzis, fountains, as well as in air conditioning and ventilation systems.

Legionella pneumophila – the main culprit of infections

Legionella pneumophila is the main species that causes legionellosis, also known as legionellosis or Legionnaires' disease. It is a Gram-negative rod,which has the ability to form biofilms in the form of slime and sediment, making it difficult to remove from the water system. This bacterium is highly tolerant of extreme conditions, including temperature changes and chlorine doses, which makes it particularly dangerous in environments where it can grow and thrive.

Legionella bacteria – other species

In addition to the most well-known and dangerous species,legionella pneumophila, there are many other types, such as: legionella longbeachae, legionella micdadei, legionella dumoffii, legionella bozemanae.

Legionella longbeachae – a rarer but equally dangerous species

Legionellalongbeachae is the second most common species of Legionella bacteria that can cause legionellosis in humans. It is often associated with infections originating from soil or compost.

Legionella micdadei – a threat to people with weakened immune systems

Legionella micdadei is a species that can cause various infections, including pneumonia.of pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and wound infections. It is relatively rare but can cause serious conditions in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Legionella dumoffii and Legionella bozemanae – less common but still dangerous

Although Legionella dumoffii and Legionella bozemanae are significantly less common species, they have been identified as the cause of some casesLegionella in humans.

Legionella bacteria – temperature

Legionella is most commonly found in warm water. Its growth occurs at temperatures between 20°C and 50°C, which means that water supply systems, boilers, and even showers can be potential sources of infection.

Legionella – water smell

The smell of water is an essential aspect of assessing water quality, especially in the context of its safety and potential threat from harmful bacteria. However, it should be noted that in the case of legionella, tap water does not have a detectable odor that would allow for a hundred percent confirmation of contamination.

It is worth remembering: Legionella is particularly dangerous in warm water, where its growth ismost intense.

Legionella bacteria – symptoms of legionellosis

Legionellosis is a disease with a varied spectrum of symptoms, which makes its diagnosis potentially problematic. These discrepancies may arise from a range of individual factors. However, there are several typical symptoms that suggest a person has been exposed to Legionella bacteria.

Fever

In the case of legionellosis, patients often experience a sudden increase in body temperature. The fever can be moderate or high, reaching up to 40°C.

Muscle pain

The disease caused by the bacterium legionella pneumophila can cause muscle and joint pain, which can be mistaken forsymptoms of the flu.

Cough

Legionellosis presents with a dry cough that can progress to a cough with sputum production.

Shortness of breath

Some patients with legionellosis experience shortness of breath, which can be a sign of a serious respiratory infection.

Fatigue

Moreover, a general feeling of fatigue and weakness of the body is a common symptom of legionellosis.

Legionella – skin symptoms

As mentioned in this text, infection caused by the Legionella bacteria primarily leads to symptoms similar to those of the flu or pneumonia. Skin symptoms are very rare andnot characteristic of the effects of legionellosis.

Differences in the symptoms of legionellosis

As mentioned earlier, the symptoms of legionellosis can vary among individuals depending on many factors. Below we present the most common ones.

Health status of the infected

People with weakened immune systems, such as seniors, individuals with chronic illnesses, or smokers, may experience more severe symptoms of the condition.

The amount of legionella bacteria in water

The amount of legionella bacteria can affect the severity of symptoms. A higher dose leads to a more severe course of the disease.

Specieslegionella

As we mentioned in previous chapters, different species of legionella bacteria can cause different symptoms. However, it should be noted that legionella pneumophila is by far the most common cause of legionellosis.

Age of the infected

Although legionellosis can occur in people of all ages, it is, as usually occurs in the case of such diseases, most commonly diagnosed in individuals aged 50 and older.

Legionellosis – potential complications

Legionellosis, if not quickly recognized and properly treated, can lead to serious complications, especially in individuals with weakened health. Below we describe the most common ones.

Pneumonia

Legionella is one of the main causes of pneumonia, also known as legionnaires' disease. This complication can be very serious and may require hospitalization.

It's worth remembering: Keeping the water temperature below 20°C and above 50°C can significantly reduce the risk of legionella growth.

Acute failure

In some patients, Legionnaires' disease can lead to acute kidney failure, which is a life-threatening condition.

Sepsis

In some cases, a Legionella infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause sepsis, which is a critical condition.

Other complicationslegionellosis

Although the above examples are the most common effects of legionellosis, this disease can also affect other organs, such as the heart or liver.

How to recognize legionellosis?

The symptoms of legionellosis are not uniform, often resembling the symptoms of other respiratory diseases. For this reason, withoutA professional diagnosis makes it difficult to determine the actual condition of the patient. To be completely certain whether a person has been infected with Legionella bacteria, it is best to perform a series of tests, which we describe below.

Blood tests

Blood tests can indicate the presence of inflammation and other abnormalities that may suggest the presence of an infection.

Examination

Sputum analysis can reveal the presence of bacteria legionella pneumophila or other pathogens, which confirms the diagnosis.

Imaging studies

Radiological imaging studies, such as chest X-rays or computed tomography, can help detect changes in the lungs that are characteristic oflegionellosis.

Legionella bacteria infection – legionellosis treatment

Immediate treatment of legionellosis is very important in case of confirmation of the diagnosis of this disease. There are several therapeutic methods, and the most important ones are described below.

Pharmacological therapy

Antibiotics are the main tool inin the treatment of legionellosis. The most commonly used is erythromycin; however, other pharmaceuticals, such as azithromycin or levofloxacin, can also be effective in treating this condition.

Antibiotic treatment is usually prolonged and can last from 2 to 3 weeks or longer, especially in cases of complications or severe disease progression. Monitoring treatment progress through imaging studies and laboratory tests is essential in this case.key.

Hospitalization

In the case of severe legionella infections, especially when acute pneumonia occurs, hospitalization may become necessary. In such situations, the hospital is able to provide more intensive therapy and specialized care, including treatment with intravenous antibiotics and respiratory support if needed.

Treatmentindividual

Some cases of legionellosis can lead to complications such as acute kidney inflammation or respiratory failure. In such cases, individual treatment is necessary, which may include dialysis or a ventilator.

How to protect yourself from legionella? Effective filtration and disinfection of water!

Prevention is the best wayto avoid infection with legionella bacteria. Therefore, it is worth equipping yourself with effective water filters and disinfection devices. Since the topic of legionella may recur in the coming years, we have made a short list of equipment that will effectively deal with this dangerous bacterium.

Reverse osmosis filters

In protecting against legionella, filters are an excellent choice.reverse osmosis, which effectively eliminates all harmful microorganisms thanks to the use of an osmotic membrane and appropriate pressure.

It's worth remembering: Regular maintenance of water systems and the use of appropriate filtration technologies significantly reduces the risk of contamination.

Water purification through UV rays

Anotheran extremely effective solution is water purification through UV rays, which destroy the DNA of bacteria, preventing further reproduction of pathogens. This method can be used in both water supply systems and water installations (e.g., fountains).

Prevention of legionellosis – effective tips

Water filtration is one thing, but it is also worth keeping in mind thatOther issues that can help us avoid water contamination with legionella bacteria. Below we present some effective precautions.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of water systems

For public utility facilities such as hotels, hospitals, or industrial plants, regular cleaning and disinfection of water systems where legionella can grow is crucial.

Proper maintenance of pools and jacuzzis

Pools and jacuzzis should be kept clean and disinfected according to recommendations to prevent the growth of legionella.

Care for air conditioning and ventilation systems

Regular maintenance and cleaning of air conditioning and ventilation systems helps preventthe spread of legionella through the air.

Water hygiene at home

To minimize the risk of legionella infection at home, it is important to remember a few key points, such as regularly cleaning showers and showerheads, as well as systematic maintenance of boilers and water tanks.

Legionella in water –

Legionella has recently become a very hot topic due to the rising wave of infections and deaths. This is certainly not the last time we will hear about it. However, it should be noted that this bacterium is commonly present in the environment, and the problem only begins when certain standards are exceeded.

In the case of facilities where patients with reduced immunity are present, including those affectedin immunosuppressive treatment, the concentration of legionella should not exceed 50/1000 ml. Less restrictive standards apply to hotels, swimming pools, or schools, where the maximum concentration is set at 100/100 ml.

The key to protecting against legionella is adhering to basic safety and hygiene principles. Equipping oneself with effective water filtration and disinfection systems and regular maintenance of installations andDevices will ensure that these harmful bacteria have no right to appear in our home tap.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is legionella?

Legionella is a type of bacteria that thrive in water and can cause serious illnesses.

What are the symptoms of legionellosis?

Typical symptoms include fever, muscle pain, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue.

How can legionellosis be diagnosed?

Diagnosis is based on blood tests, sputum examination, and imaging analysis of the lungs.

What are the treatment methods for legionellosis?

Treatment involves the use of antibiotics and, if necessary, hospitalization.

How can legionella infections be prevented?

Prevention includes using water filters and regularly cleaning water systems.

Is legionella dangerous to health?

Yes, legionella can lead to serious illnesses, including legionellosis, which can be fatal.

Author: Maciej Waliduda — a specialist in water quality and public health protection.