About the Disease

Español: Sobre la enfermedad

Legionellosis (LEE-juh-nuh-low-sis) is a respiratory disease caused by Legionella bacteria. Sometimes the bacteria cause a serious type of pneumonia (lung infection) called Legionnaires' disease. The bacteria can also cause a less serious infection called Pontiac fever that has symptoms similar to a mild case of the flu.

• Causes, How it Spreads, and People at Increased Risk

  Explains where Legionella can be found, how people are exposed to it, and who is at increased risk for getting sick…

• Signs and Symptoms

  Lists signs and symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease and Pontiac fever…

• Diagnosis, Treatment, and Complications

  Describes tests performed to confirm infection, how legionellosis is treated, and possible complications that can arise…

• Prevention

  Explains the role water maintenance plays in preventing legionellosis…

• History and Disease Patterns

  Provides the history of legionellosis and explains disease patterns…

Legionnaires’ Disease Fact Sheet [1 page]
This fact sheet describes what Legionnaires’ disease is, its symptoms, how it’s spread and treated, and who is at increased risk.