Legionella Pneumophila

Legionella pneumophila is a bacteria that is widely found in water sources such as rivers and lakes. This bacteria, while harmless to most if ingested, can cause a severe type of pneumonia known as Legionnaires' disease if inhaled. It is most commonly contracted when people inhale steam or fine water droplets from a contaminated aerosol such as air conditioning systems or showers. Although Legionnaires' disease is rare, the presence of Legionella pneumophila at normal or higher than normal levels could still pose a health risk to some individuals, and therefore it is important to take necessary precautionary measures and monitor water systems for the presence of this bacteria.