Legionnaires’ Disease
This uncommon form of pneumonia is caused by the Legionella bacteria which thrives in hot, moist conditions in soil and water. Air-conditioning, cooling towers and jacuzzi baths may be a source of infection if they have not been properly cleaned and maintained.
Infection cannot be spread from person-to-person and is usually contracted by inhalation of aerosol droplets from a contaminated cooling tower or spa. The incubation period is approximately ten days. Smokers, or those with weakened immunity, are most at risk.