Did you know that a hot tub can be a source of Legionnaires' disease? This disease is caused by bacteria that are mostly found in soil and warm water. And while it doesn't affect everyone who comes in contact with it, the bacteria can cause severe respiratory problems in those who get infected.

Keep reading to learn what Legionnaires' disease is, who's most at risk, and what you can do if you or someone you know contracts it.

What is Legionnaires' Disease?

Legionnaires' disease is a type of lung infection you get by breathing in Legionella bacteria, which are typically found in water or soil. Although the disease mostly affects the lungs, it can also cause infections in wounds and other parts of the body, including the heart. 

Legionnaires' disease is life-threatening if not treated promptly, so it's important to know how to recognize the symptoms so you can get medical help quickly.

Who is More Likely to Get Legionnaires' Disease?

Anyone can get Legionnaires' disease if they inhale contaminated water droplets. But some people are at a higher risk than others. Those who are more likely to contract the disease include the following:

Older adults: If you're over 50 years old, then you are at greater risk of getting the disease.

People with weakened immune systems: If you have a chronic illness, like diabetes or cancer, or are taking immunosuppressive medications, you're more likely to get the disease.

Smokers: Smoking damages the lungs, making it easier for someone to get Legionnaires' disease.

People with chronic lung disease: If you have a condition like COPD, then you're more likely to get the disease.

If you or someone you know is at a higher risk of contracting Legionnaires' disease, then you should avoid potential sources of Legionella bacteria, such as untreated hot tubs. You should also watch out for the symptoms if you suspect that you've been exposed to Legionella bacteria.

Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease

The symptoms of Legionnaires' disease are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, making it hard to diagnose at first. If you've been exposed to a possible source of the bacteria and start noticing symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. 

The following are some of the symptoms you should look out for:

• High fever and chills
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Cough (often producing mucus)
• Chest pain
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

You can start experiencing these symptoms between 2 to 10 days after exposure. But in some cases, they can appear as early as 24 hours or as late as two weeks.

Causes of Legionnaires' Disease

The Legionella bacteria that cause Legionnaires' disease are mostly found in warm water environments. You might find the bacteria lurking in:

Hot tubs
Hot tubs are one of the most common sources of Legionnaires' disease. If you don't maintain your hot tubs well, they can become breeding grounds for Legionella.

Cooling towers
If cooling towers aren't properly maintained, Legionella bacteria can grow in the warm water and then be dispersed into the air. Since cooling towers are part of a system that circulates air, they can spread the bacteria over a large area, putting anyone nearby at risk.

Water tanks and plumbing systems
Legionella bacteria can thrive in water tanks and plumbing systems, especially when the temperature is between 68°F and 122°F (20°C to 50°C).

Fountains and decorative water features
Fountains and other decorative water features can harbor Legionella bacteria especially if they're not cleaned and maintained regularly. If the water is recirculated and left stagnant for too long, it becomes a perfect breeding ground for the bacteria, especially in warmer conditions.

Management and Treatment of Legionnaires' Disease

If you suspect that you've contracted Legionnaires' disease, you should immediately consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor will diagnose the disease with a urine test or by testing a sample of mucus from the lungs. Once diagnosed, you will be treated using the following:

Antibiotics: Because Legionnaires' is a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics like azithromycin or ciprofloxacin. They might hospitalize you if the infection is severe.

Oxygen therapy: You may need oxygen therapy if the infection affects your ability to breathe.

Fluids: Your doctor might put you on hydration, especially if you've had symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.

Keep Yourself Safe From Legionnaires' Disease

While Legionnaires' disease isn't as common as other respiratory illnesses, you should know where it comes from and how it spreads so you can keep yourself safe. If you think you've been exposed to Legionella bacteria and start feeling unwell, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor for early diagnosis and treatment.