In recent weeks, Legionnaires’ disease has been making headlines in the U.S. after multiple outbreaks, including in New York City. Health officials are urging the public to stay alert — and for good reason. This serious lung infection can be deadly if not treated quickly.
So, what exactly is Legionnaires’ disease, how do you catch it, and — most importantly — how can you protect yourself? Let’s break it down.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the bacteria Legionella pneumophila. Unlike the flu or COVID-19, it’s not spread from person to person. Instead, people get infected by breathing in tiny droplets of water containing the bacteria.
These droplets can come from:
- Cooling towers (air conditioning systems in large buildings)
- Hot tubs
- Decorative fountains
- Plumbing systems in hotels, hospitals, or offices
📌 According to the CDC, around 1 in 10 people who get Legionnaires’ disease will die from it — but early treatment saves lives.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Legionnaires’ disease often starts with flu-like symptoms but quickly gets worse. Common signs include:
- Fever and chills
- Cough (sometimes with mucus or blood)
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Diarrhea, nausea, or confusion in some cases
If you notice these symptoms — especially after being in a place with large water systems — see a doctor immediately.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Anyone can get Legionnaires’ disease, but certain groups are more vulnerable:
- People over 50
- Smokers
- Those with chronic lung disease (COPD, asthma)
- People with weakened immune systems
- Cancer patients or organ transplant recipients
How Is It Treated?
Treatment usually involves antibiotics for at least 7–10 days. In severe cases, patients may need hospitalization and oxygen support.
💡 Here’s where staying on top of your medication schedule is critical. Missing doses can make recovery harder — and that’s where Pill Plan can help. Our app reminds you exactly when to take your antibiotics so you don’t miss a dose.
Prevention Tips
While you can’t control every building’s plumbing system, you can lower your risk:
- Avoid hot tubs or pools that look poorly maintained
- Let tap water run for a few minutes if you’ve been away from home
- Keep your home’s water heater set to at least 60°C (140°F)
- Ensure air conditioning systems are serviced regularly
Related Reading
If you’re interested in learning about other recent infectious disease outbreaks, check out our article on the Chikungunya Virus Outbreak in China.
The Bottom Line
Legionnaires’ disease is rare — but when it strikes, it can be deadly. Staying informed and acting fast can literally save your life.
If you’re prescribed antibiotics after exposure, use Pill Plan’s medication tracker to stay on schedule and recover fully.
Health trends may come and go, but protecting your lungs? That’s always in style.
