Legionnaires' disease

Aug. 3, 2024

Australia's Victoria has recorded 71 confirmed cases of legionnaires' disease and a woman died from the disease.

About Legionnaires' disease:

  • It is caused by the Legionella bacteria, which can only be found in natural bodies of water such as lakes and hot springs.
  • It is a severe form of pneumonia — lung inflammation usually caused by infection. It's caused by a bacterium known as legionella.
  • This bacterium is found in lakes and ponds, but they can also develop in tanks and other water systems.
  • Transmission: The most common form of transmission of Legionella is inhalation of contaminated aerosols from contaminated water. 
  • It is not contagious, meaning it is not spread from person-to-person.
  • Symptoms: The main symptoms are fever, chills, headache, malaise and muscle pain (myalgia).
  • Treatment: Treatments exist, but there is no vaccine currently available for Legionnaires’ disease.