- This infographic visualizes how Legionella affects building water systems and people.
- First, factors lead to Legionella growth in building water systems.
- Next, water containing Legionella is aerosolized through devices.
- Finally, people breathe in the bacteria or accidently swallow water containing the bacteria into their lungs.
Text equivalent
1. Internal and external factors can lead to Legionella growth in building water systems.[Icons depict construction, biofilm, and water temperature fluctuations. These are examples of internal and external factors that can lead to Legionella growth in building water systems.]
2. Legionella grows best in large, complex water systems that are not adequately maintained. [Icons depicting a large building with cooling towers on top of it, a healthcare facility, and a cruise ship.]
3. Water containing Legionella is aerosolized through devices.
[Icons depicting a cooling tower, shower, hot tub, and decorative fountain.]
4. People can get sick when they breathe in small droplets of water or accidently swallow water containing Legionella into the lungs. Those at increased risk are
- Adults 50 years or older
- Current or former smokers
- People with a weakened immune system
- People with a chronic disease
[Illustration of someone breathing in small droplets of water containing Legionella.)
[logo] U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention