Legionnaires' Disease
(Legionella · Legionellosis)
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Legionnaires' Disease
Legionnaires' disease can't be distinguished from other severe forms of pneumonia by symptoms alone. A chest x-ray is used to confirm pneumonia, but other tests are required to determine if it is caused by Legionella. These may involve a urine test and a lab test that looks at sputum or fluid from the lungs.
Treating and Preventing Legionnaires' Disease
Antibiotics are needed to treat Legionnaires' disease. Treatment should be continued for 14 days, but in people with a weakened immune system, treatment should be continued for 3 weeks to prevent relapses. The chances of survival depend on the strength of the lungs, the immune system, and the spread of the bacteria within the lungs.
Nothing can guarantee protection from Legionnaires' disease, but the following can help:
- avoid viral respiratory infections such as the common cold and influenza
- disinfect humidifiers, shower heads, hot tubs; and whirlpools on a regular basis
- don't smoke
- get an annual flu shot
- have water-cooling equipment disinfected (not just cleaned) regularly
- wash your hands after contact with people who have respiratory infections
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Legionnaires-Disease
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