As the hot weather persists, air conditioners have become a staple in every household. However, few are aware that after a period of inactivity, air conditioners can become a haven for Legionella bacteria – a dangerous agent that causes severe pneumonia and can even lead to death if not detected and treated promptly.
Lurking in Air Conditioners – The Dangers of Legionella Bacteria
According to medical experts, Legionella bacteria thrive in warm and humid environments, typically growing at temperatures ranging from 25 to 42 degrees Celsius. When tiny water droplets (aerosols) containing these bacteria are dispersed into the air, individuals who inhale them can contract Legionnaires’ disease – also known as “Legion fever.”
What’s concerning is that the initial symptoms of this disease can be mistaken for a common cold, as they include fever, coughing, and fatigue. However, within 48 hours, if left untreated or improperly managed, the condition can rapidly progress to severe pneumonia, respiratory failure, multi-organ damage, and even death, with reported mortality rates as high as 10-30%.
Individuals at higher risk include the elderly, those with chronic underlying conditions, smokers, and people with compromised immune systems.
Common Hiding Places of Legionella Bacteria
Legionella bacteria are not limited to air conditioners; they can also be found in various commonly used devices and spaces, such as:
– Evaporator coils and air filters of air conditioners that are not regularly cleaned.
– Showerheads and faucets that have not been used for extended periods.
– Public hot springs, fountains, and household humidifiers.
– Water-using appliances such as storage tanks and pipes in central air conditioning systems.
At these sites, if the water is not regularly cleaned and disinfected, Legionella bacteria can proliferate and form challenging-to-control reservoirs. When the contaminated water is aerosolized and released into the air, it poses a significant health risk.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For
The incubation period for Legionella infection ranges from 2 to 10 days. Common symptoms to look out for include:
– Persistent high fever above 39°C
– Dry cough or productive cough, which may include blood-tinged sputum
– Chest pain and difficulty breathing
– Nausea and diarrhea
– Confusion and disorientation
Notably, many cases do not respond to common antibiotics such as penicillin, leading to misdiagnosis and treatment delays, which are primary factors in increasing the risk of severe complications.
Effective Prevention Strategies
1. Disinfect equipment before use: Have air conditioners thoroughly cleaned by professional technicians at least once a year, especially before the summer season. Air filters should be removed and washed monthly with hot water (above 70°C) and a neutral detergent.
For showerheads and water-containing appliances that haven’t been used for a while, flush them with water for a few minutes to remove stagnant water and built-up dirt.
Regarding humidifiers, change the water daily and disinfect weekly with a diluted chlorine solution.
2. Be cautious when traveling and exposed to humid environments: Opt for hot springs, pools, or bathing facilities that have clear sanitation procedures and proper water quality testing.
When gardening or engaging in activities that involve soil contact, wear a mask and gloves to minimize direct contact with bacteria from the environment.
3. Monitor your health after potential exposure: If you experience symptoms like high fever, coughing, or diarrhea after using air conditioning, bathing in warm water, or traveling, seek medical attention promptly. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about your recent activities to facilitate appropriate testing and diagnosis.
Why is it Called “Legion Fever”?
The name “Legionella” originates from a significant health event that occurred in Philadelphia, USA, in 1976. During this incident, dozens of veterans attending a conference contracted severe pneumonia caused by this bacterium. The media referred to it as “Legion fever,” and thus, the bacterium was named Legionella.
However, it’s essential to emphasize that this disease can affect anyone, not just soldiers or individuals with specific occupations. The risk arises when proper hygiene practices are not maintained when using equipment associated with water and air.
Expert Recommendations
Prevention is always better than cure. During the summer peak, when air conditioner usage surges, individuals must stay vigilant and adhere strictly to equipment sanitation guidelines.
If you experience any unusual respiratory symptoms, especially if they persist despite antibiotic treatment, seek specialized care at infectious disease clinics to rule out Legionella infection and receive accurate diagnosis and treatment.
