Legionnaires Disease
Is a potentially fatal lung infection (pneumonia) that is caused by bacteria legionella which can be commonly found in water such as lakes and rivers. Sometimes the bacteria find its way into air conditioning systems, hot and cold water services and water towers.
Risk areas:
Worldwide
Transmission:
It is spread by breathing in small droplets of contaminated water. Large buildings such as hotels, hospitals etc. are more vulnerable to legionnaire’s disease due to the water supply systems.
Symptoms:
Incubation is approximately 3-6 days. Initially symptoms may include mild headaches and muscle pain. More severe symptoms include high fever, severe stomach pains and chills. It can also cause gastrointestinal symptoms. If the disease reaches your lungs it can result in a persistent cough, shortness of breath or chest pains.
Treatment:
There is no vaccine for Legionnaires disease; however it will require prompt treatment with antibiotics.
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Dr Travel Tips
- When camping, reduce the chance of insect bites by wearing light coloured clothing and avoiding perfumes.
- This is on 'oldy but a goody': always pack a spare pair of clothes in you hand luggage just in ‘case’ the airline loses your other baggage.
- Before you travel you should call your bank and let them know where you are travelling and the dates of your trip to avoid bank card issues.
- Some tips seem obvious but return the best value, this is one. Always retain a cheery disposition wherever you are travelling, you will receive far greater service – a smile is multilingual.
- To save space in your luggage and reduce the weight should you be charged extra, take samples of toiletries rather than packing your large ‘home size’ containers.
