Legionnaires Disease

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July 20, 2021

There has been a resent increase in cases of Legionnaires Disease in the North West. So remember to request Urine Legionella Antigen test, if you have suspicions.

  • Spread: water droplets (hot-tubs, air-con, showers etc.)
  • Incubation: 2-10 days typically
  • Signs/Symptoms:
    • Fever, chills
    • Cough: dry or productive (1/3 have haemoptysis)
    • Gastrointestinal symptoms  – approx 1/2
    • Neurological  (inc confusion) – approx 1/2
    • Relative Bradycardia
  • Investigations: 
    • Urine Legionella antigen test
    • U+E’s – low sodium is more common
    • Sepsis bloods and CXR – as required
  • Treatment:
    • As Sepsis – if any Red-Flags
    • Antibiotics:
      • Quinolones: levofloxacin
      • Macrolides: azithromycin clarythromycin
      • Trust guide HERE