As the heatwave continues, 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 – How Dangerous Is It?
According to medical experts, Legionella bacteria thrive in warm and humid environments, typically growing at temperatures ranging from 77 to 107.6 °F (25 to 42 °C). When tiny water droplets (aerosols) containing these bacteria are released into the air, individuals who inhale them can develop Legionella pneumonia, also known as Legionnaires’ disease.
What’s concerning is that the initial symptoms can be mistaken for a common cold, including fever, cough, 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% fatality 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:
– Evaporator coils and dirty air filters in air conditioning systems that are not regularly maintained or cleaned.
– Showerheads and faucet aerators that have not been used for extended periods.
– Public hot springs, decorative fountains, and household humidifiers.
– Water-using devices 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 a challenging-to-control source 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 102.2 °F (39 °C)
– Dry cough or productive cough, which may include blood-stained 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 are significant 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.
2. For showerheads and water storage devices: If they haven’t been used for a long time, flush them with water for a few minutes to remove stagnant water and any built-up sediment.
3. For humidifiers: Change the water daily, and disinfect the device 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 have clear sanitation procedures and proper water quality testing.
5. When gardening or handling soil: Wear a mask and gloves to minimize direct contact with bacteria that may be present in the environment.
6. Monitor your health after potential exposure: If you experience symptoms like a high fever, cough, 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 facilitate appropriate testing and diagnosis.
Why Is It Called “Legionnaires’ Disease”?
The name “Legionella” originates from a significant health event that occurred in Philadelphia, USA, in 1976. During a convention, dozens of veterans were infected with severe pneumonia caused by this bacterium. The media referred to it as “Legionnaires’ disease,” and hence, 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.
