Legionellosis

(Legionella, Legionnaires Disease)

Legionella are bacteria found in natural water environments and can grow in human-made water systems, such as plumbing, cooling towers, hot tubs, showers and decorative fountains. Breathing in small droplets or vapour of contaminated water can cause mild infection (Pontiac fever) with flu-like symptoms or pneumonia (Legionnaires’ disease). The elderly and immunocompromised people are at greater risk of illness.