As the hot weather persists, air conditioners have become a staple in every household. However, what many don’t realize is that after a long period of inactivity, air conditioners can become a breeding ground for the dangerous Legionella bacteria, which can cause severe pneumonia and even lead to fatality if left untreated.
Legionella Bacteria Hiding in Air Conditioners – Understanding the Risk
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 released into the air, individuals who inhale them can contract Legionnaires’ disease, also known as “Legion” disease.
What’s concerning is that the initial symptoms of this disease can be easily mistaken for the common flu, as they include fever, coughing, and fatigue. However, within 48 hours, if left untreated or misdiagnosed, the disease can rapidly progress to severe pneumonia, respiratory failure, multi-organ damage, and even lead to a reported 10-30% mortality rate.
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 equipment and spaces, such as:
– Air conditioner evaporator coils and filters 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 create challenging-to-control reservoirs of infection when released into the air as aerosols.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For
Legionella infection has an incubation period of 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-streaked 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 potential misdiagnosis and treatment delays, which can further increase the risk of severe complications.
Effective Prevention Strategies
1. Disinfect equipment before use: For air conditioners, it is recommended to have them 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 mild detergent.
2. For showerheads and water-containing appliances: If they haven’t been used for a while, flush them with water for a few minutes to remove any stagnant water and built-up debris.
3. Humidifiers: Change the water daily, and disinfect weekly with a diluted chlorine solution.
4. Be cautious when traveling or exposed to humid environments: Opt for hot springs, pools, or bathing facilities that maintain proper sanitation and water quality standards. When gardening or working with soil, wear a mask and gloves to reduce the risk of bacterial exposure from the environment.
5. 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 doctor about your recent activities to receive appropriate diagnostic tests.
Why is it Called “Legion” Disease?
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” disease, and thus, the bacterium was named Legionella.
However, it’s essential to understand that this disease can affect anyone, not just soldiers or those with specific occupations. Anyone is at risk if 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, consult a specialist in infectious diseases to rule out Legionella infection.
