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Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal form of pneumonia, with everyone at risk of infection.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacterium. It is contracted by inhaling tiny droplets of contaminated water containing the bacteria, which can come from artificial water systems like air conditioning, hot tubs, and showers. Symptoms include fever, cough, muscle aches, and headache, with progression to confusion and severe respiratory issues.
The risk of Legionnaires Disease increases with age, with some people at a higher risk including:
Although the risk is low, there are ways you can help to keep you and your family safe
Maintain water temperature:
Store hot water between 50°C and 60°C to slow bacterial growth. If you have a hot water cylinder, make sure the thermostat is set appropriately. Combination boilers that provide hot water directly to taps don’t require storage temperature control.
Flush taps and showers etc:
Regularly flush showers and taps for at least 10 minutes after periods of non-use (e.g., after a holiday or if your home has been empty for a week). Flush taps and showers you don’t use as much at least weekly.
Clean and disinfect:
Clean showerheads and hoses every three months by removing and cleaning them in hot water. Disinfect showerheads regularly, about four times a year and keep taps and showerheads free of limescale, mould, and algae.
The initial symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease are similar to those of flu:
It can also lead on to more serious symptoms such as:
Legionnaires’ disease is not known to spread from person to person.
If you have these symptoms, please seek medical attention as quickly as you can.
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