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Legionnaires' Disease

Legionnaires' Disease is a severe bacterial infection of the respiratory tract, caused by Legionella pneumophila.

Description of Legionnaires' Disease

The disease acquired its name as a result of an outbreak of illness during the 1976 convention of the American Legion held in Philadelphia. At least 180 American Legion members attending the conference contracted a mysterious pneumonia that did not respond to conventional antibiotic treatment. Twenty nine people died. Eventually, the villain turned out to be Legionella pneumophila, a bacteria that was proliferating in the hotel's air conditioning system. Other outbreaks have since occurred in the U.S. and Europe.

Causes and Risk Factors of Legionnaires' Disease

The major environmental source of the infection is water from reservoirs and cooling units of air conditioning systems. Lakes, creeks, and areas of excavation also may harbor the bacteria. Transmission is by breathing in droplets of contaminated water. Person-to-person transmission has not been documented.

Those at risk are cigarette smokers, those with chronic lung disease, and persons receiving drugs that suppress the immune system.

Persons who have some other medical problem such as heart disease, cancer, or kidney disease are also believed to be more susceptible.

Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease

The symptoms are similar to those of many other respiratory diseases, making it difficult to differentiate and diagnose. Symptoms may include dry coughing, high fever, chills, diarrhea, shortness of breath, chest pains, headaches, excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Occasionally, bloody sputum is produced. Lethargy and confusion can occur in progressive, serious cases.

How can a UV Air Purifier help?

The bacteria that causes Legionnaires Disease is airborne and transmission is caused by breathing in the contamination. Having a HEPA air purifier with UV light can capture the airborne contaminate in the HEPA filter. The UV light then has the opportunity to neutralize the bacteria.

Who should have a UV air purifier or air filtration system to help eliminate the possibly of respiratory illnesses caused by bacterial infections?

• Hospitals
• Retirement and Nursing Homes
• Fitness Centers
• Office buildings with old HVAC systems
• Homes that are located near reservoirs

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