Experts warn that there is a deadly disease that can be spread in hot tubs and showers. It is Legionnaires’ disease (legionellosis), an infectious lung disease caused by Legionella bacteria, an aquatic organism that lives at temperatures of 25–45°C.
You can get this disease if you inhale the small particles of water that contain this bacteria and cause the infection. Germs can appear in hot tubs, swimming pools and shower heads or even garden sprinklers.
The warning comes after a company was sued for five cases of infections with the disease, with patients needing medical attention.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) warns UK residents to take care, especially as these germs crave warmer temperatures.
Legionnaires’ disease: signs and symptoms
The main symptoms of this disease are similar to the flu. These include:
- headaches
- muscle pain
- fever
- feeling tired
- chills
When the bacteria has spread to the lungs, symptoms are similar to pneumonia and include:
- chest pains
- persistent cough
- difficulty breathing
- confusion
- gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting
To minimize the risk of infection with Legionnaires’ disease, ensure that the SPA area is disinfected. Specifically, that chlorine is used to maintain a pH necessary to stop the spread of germs.
Risk factors
Not everyone exposed to legionella bacteria gets sick. You are more likely to get the infection if you:
- you smoke– smoking affects the lungs and makes you more prone to lung infections
- You have a weakened immune system– This can be the result of certain medications, especially corticosteroids and drugs that prevent rejection of an organ after transplantation.
- You have chronic lung disease or another serious condition– Here we include emphysema, diabetes, kidney diseases, cancer.
- You are 50 years old or over 50 years old.
2023-06-07 12:20:12
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