HealthInfo Canterbury
Legionnaires' disease (legionellosis)
Important
Legionnaires' disease can be very serious. If you think you may have it, see your doctor immediately.
Legionnaires' disease is a chest infection (pneumonia) caused by the Legionella bacteria. People usually catch the disease by breathing in water droplets that contain the bacteria. Possible sources of contaminated water droplets include piped hot water, air conditioners, spa pools and compost.
Symptoms of Legionnaire's disease include:
- cough
- shortness of breath
- high fever
- diarrhoea.
If your doctor suspects you may have Legionnaires' disease, you will need to take special antibiotics. You will also need tests, which may include:
- testing a sample of your sputum (phlegm) for the bacteria
- testing a urine sample for the bacteria
- testing your blood to look for antibodies to the bacteria.
HealthInfo recommends the following pages
- Canterbury DHB – Legionnaires' disease (legionellosis)
This pamphlet explains Legionnaires' disease, including the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
On the next page: Avoid Legionnaires' disease by using potting mix safely
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by community respiratory physician, Canterbury DHB. Last reviewed May 2017.
SourcesReview key: HILEG-49708
