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:
– Evaporators and uncleaned air conditioner filters
– 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, the bacteria can proliferate and form challenging-to-control reservoirs. When the aerosolized bacteria are released into the air, they pose a significant health risk.
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-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 summer. Clean the air filters 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 while, flush them out for a few minutes to remove stagnant water and dirt.
3. For 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 with clear sanitation procedures and proper water quality checks.
5. When gardening or handling soil: Wear a mask and gloves to minimize direct contact with bacteria from the environment.
6. 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 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 those with specific occupations. Anyone is at risk if they do not maintain proper hygiene when using equipment related to 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 unusual respiratory symptoms, especially if they persist despite antibiotic treatment, consult a specialist in infectious diseases to rule out Legionella infection and receive an accurate diagnosis.
