Legionella
Legionella
Legionella (pronounced: lee-juh-nel-uh) is a genus of pathogenic bacteria that is known to cause a type of pneumonia known as Legionnaires' disease and a milder condition known as Pontiac fever.
Etymology
The term "Legionella" was coined in 1977, named after an outbreak of a then-unknown "mystery disease" that sickened 221 persons, causing 34 deaths. The outbreak was first noticed among people attending a convention of the American Legion—an association of U.S. military veterans—in Philadelphia.
Related Terms
- Legionnaires' disease: A severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.
- Pontiac fever: A milder illness caused by the same bacteria.
- Bacteria: Microorganisms that can cause disease.
- Pneumonia: Inflammation of the lung tissue, usually caused by infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include cough, shortness of breath, high fever, muscle pains, and headaches. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. This often begins two to ten days after being exposed.
Treatment
Treatment is typically with antibiotics such as azithromycin, erythromycin, or levofloxacin. Pontiac fever resolves on its own without treatment.
Prevention
Prevention is by properly maintaining water systems, including using disinfectants such as chlorine and heat.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Legionella
- Wikipedia's article - Legionella
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski