Legionellosis risk factors

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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:

• 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