Legionnaires' disease is a serious and potentially life threatening lung infection that is caused by the bacteria Legionella. There are over 40 species of Legionella bacteria. However,only a few cause infections. The most common species associated with causing human disease in Australia are Legionella pneumophila and Legionella longbeachae.
Legionella pneumophila can be transmitted through the air by inhaling fine droplets of water contaminated with the organism, and are associated with warm water environments such as cooling towers, evaporative air-conditioners, showers, warm water systems, spa pools, misting or droplets sprays and fountains.
Legionella longbeachae is the most common strain in Western Australia andis associated with breathing in aerosols from potting mixes, gardening soils, mulches, composts and soil conditioners.
The early symptoms of Legionnaires' disease are often like a severe ‘flu’ infection, and include some or all of the following symptoms:
- Fever (up to 40ºC)
- Chills, aching muscles and joints
- A dry cough
- Headache (often severe)
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Shortness of breath
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For further information contact the Environmental Hazards Unit of the Environmental Health Directorate on (08) 9388 4999 or email ehinfo@health.wa.gov.au
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Last Updated: 10 March 2008
