Legionnaires' disease facts for kids
Legionnaires' disease is a serious type of pneumonia. Pneumonia is an infection that makes your lungs swell and fill with fluid. This disease is caused by tiny living things called Legionella bacteria. Most of the time, over 90% of cases, it's caused by a specific type called Legionella pneumophila.
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What is Legionnaires' Disease?
Legionnaires' disease is a severe lung infection. It's not something you catch from another person, like a cold. Instead, people usually get it by breathing in tiny water droplets that contain the Legionella bacteria. These bacteria often grow in warm, still water, like in air conditioning systems, hot tubs, or large plumbing systems.
How Do You Know You Have It?
After someone is exposed to the bacteria, it usually takes about two to ten days for them to start feeling sick. Sometimes, it can take up to 20 days. This time period is called the incubation period.
Common Symptoms
When people get Legionnaires' disease, they often have symptoms similar to the flu. These can include:
- A high fever
- Chills
- A cough
Other Symptoms
Some people might also feel other symptoms, such as:
- Muscle aches
- A headache
- Feeling very tired
- Not wanting to eat
- Stomach problems like diarrhea or vomiting
Who Can Get Legionnaires' Disease?
Anyone can get Legionnaires' disease, no matter their age. However, it is more common in adults who are middle-aged or older. People with weaker immune systems or other health problems might also be more likely to get sick.
Images for kids
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Transmission electron microscopy image of L. pneumophila, responsible for over 90% of Legionnaires' disease cases
See also
In Spanish: Legionelosis para niños
