Legionellosis risk factors

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Yazan Daaboul, M.D., Serge Korjian M.D.

Overview

The most important risk factor in the development of legionellosis is recent exposure to either aerosolized water or contaminated water. Other risk factors include old age, concomitant lung disease, active smoking status, and immunosuppression.

Risk Factors

Risk factors of legionellosis include:^[1]

Exposure to aquatic enviroments: aerosolized water, contaminated drinking water, whirlpool spas, water supply systems, or cooling towers (most important risk factors)
Old Age (> 50 years)
Recent travel with an overnight stay outside of the home
Current or former smokers
Recent exposure to repairs or maintenance work on domestic plumbing
Chronic lung disease (namely COPD)
Diabetes mellitus
Hepatic insufficiency
Renal insufficiency
Immunosuppression
Malignancy

References

↑ Top 10 Things Every Clinician Needs to Know About Legionellosis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed on August 5, 2015. http://www.cdc.gov/legionella/clinicians.html

Template:WikiDoc Sources

[cdc-1] Top 10 Things Every Clinician Needs to Know About Legionellosis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed on August 5, 2015. http://www.cdc.gov/legionella/clinicians.html

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