Legionnaires' Disease

Legionnaires' disease can affect anyone, but Black Americans may face higher risk due to several factors. Black communities are more likely to live in older housing with aging plumbing systems, which can harbor Legionella bacteria. Higher rates of chronic conditions such as diabetes and lung disease, along with disparities in access to healthcare, can increase the severity of the illness and the risk of complications. Black patients may also face delays in diagnosis and treatment, which can lead to worse outcomes. Awareness of the signs and sources of Legionella is important for prevention.

Overview

Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria. People can get sick by breathing in small water droplets that contain the bacteria, which can grow in warm water systems such as cooling towers, hot tubs, decorative fountains, and large plumbing systems. The disease is not spread from person to person. Most healthy people exposed to the bacteria do not get sick, but older adults, smokers, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk. Early treatment with antibiotics is important and can prevent serious complications.

Common Symptoms

Cough, often with mucus or blood
Shortness of breath
High fever and chills
Muscle aches and joint pain
Headache
Chest pain
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Confusion or changes in mental state, especially in older adults

Risk Factors in Our Community

Age 50 or older
Current or former smoking
Weakened immune system
Chronic lung disease, such as COPD or emphysema
Diabetes
Cancer and other serious illnesses
Living in older buildings with aging plumbing
Exposure to hot tubs, cooling towers, and decorative fountains
Staying in hospitals or long-term care facilities
Receiving certain medications that suppress the immune system

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