Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. The most common signs are fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and headache, though stomach problems and confusion can also occur.
Because the disease is technically a more severe strain of pneumonia, it can often be overlooked. However, if left untreated, the disease can worsen rapidly and even cause death.
If a person diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease suspects that another party’s negligence led to them being infected, they have the right to file a claim against them. There are dedicated attorneys who handle legionnaires’ disease cases across the nation who can help victims hold the responsible parties liable and get the compensation they deserve.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease happens when a person breathes in water droplets containing Legionella. The bacteria can grow in building water systems and devices that create mist, including showers, hot tubs, cooling systems, and some healthcare equipment.
It is more serious than many people realize. The CDC says about 1 in 10 people who develop Legionnaires’ disease die from the infection. For people who acquire it in a healthcare setting, the fatality rate averages about 25%.
Most healthy people exposed to Legionella do not become sick. Older adults, smokers, people with certain chronic conditions, and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of serious illness.
What Are the Common Signs of Legionnaires’ Disease?
Symptoms often look like those of other types of pneumonia. That is one reason the illness can be missed early.
Common signs include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Chest pain
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Confusion or changes in mental status
Some people feel unusually tired or generally unwell before the breathing symptoms become obvious. Others may develop a high fever and cough fairly quickly. There isn’t one pattern that fits everyone.
When Do Legionnaires’ Disease Symptoms Appear?
Symptoms usually develop 2 to 14 days after exposure to Legionella. The CDC says the most common incubation period is about four to five days, although longer periods have occasionally been reported.
That gap can make finding the source surprisingly difficult. A person may have checked out of a hotel or left a hospital several days before becoming sick, so telling the doctor about recent travel and healthcare visits can be very helpful.
When Should You Seek Medical Care?
The stakes are real. CDC data puts the case-fatality rate for Legionnaires’ disease at about 10%, and hospitalization is common. Seek medical care promptly if you develop pneumonia-like symptoms, particularly after a possible Legionella exposure.
Doctors cannot reliably tell Legionnaires’ disease apart from other pneumonia just by symptoms or a chest image. Specific testing, including urine and respiratory testing, may be needed to identify the infection.
If you’ve recently traveled, stayed in a healthcare facility, or used a hot tub, mention it. Those details may seem minor in the moment, but they can give a doctor an important clue.
Final Thoughts
Legionnaires’ disease can begin like an ordinary respiratory illness, but it can become severe. Knowing the warning signs and acting quickly can make a meaningful difference.
If you suspect exposure, keep records of your symptoms, medical visits, test results, and recent locations. Those details may help doctors investigate the illness and, when appropriate, help establish where an exposure may have occurred.
Quick Recap
- Legionnaires’ disease is a serious pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.
- Fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and headache are common signs.
- Diarrhea, nausea, chest pain, and confusion may also occur.
- Symptoms usually appear 2 to 14 days after exposure.
- About 1 in 10 people with Legionnaires’ disease die from the infection.
- Recent travel, healthcare stays, and water-related exposures can help doctors identify possible cases.