Legionnaires’ Disease , originally identified in 1976, is a serious type of preventable pneumonia (i.e. lung infection) that happens when infected micro water droplets, containing Legionella bacteria, are unknowingly inhaled by an unsuspecting person who then might develop Legionnaires’ disease or the milder and less severe version known as Pontiac fever. Most people globally have been exposed to Legionella bacteria yet those who are more at risk of developing Legionnaires’ disease include: the sick, immune compromised, the elderly, smokers, athletes and others with health conditions. These demographics are predominantly found in healthcare facilities, long term care facilities, hotels, cruise ships, high-rise buildings and other types of facilities with elaborate potable water distribution networks.
