Ten Questions Concerning the Aerosolization and Transmission of Legionella in the Built Environment

摘要: Legionella is a genus of pathogenic Gram-negative bacteria responsible for serious disease known as legionellosis, which transmitted via inhalation this pathogen in aerosol form. There are two forms legionellosis: Legionnaires' disease, causes pneumonia-like symptoms, and Pontiac fever, influenza-like symptoms. can be aerosolized from various water sources the built environment including showers, faucets, hot tubs/swimming pools, cooling towers, fountains. Incidence higher summertime, possibly because increased use towers air conditioning systems differences chemistry when outdoor temperatures higher. Although there have been decades research related to transmission, many knowledge gaps remain. While conventional wisdom suggests that showering an important source exposure buildings, existing measurements do not provide strong support idea. has limited on potential transmission through heating, ventilation, (HVAC) systems. Epidemiological data suggest large proportion legionellosis cases go unreported, most people who infected seek medical attention. Additionally, controlled laboratory studies examining water-to-air transfer tracking still needed. Herein, we discuss ten questions spotlight current about environment, engineering controls might prevent future outbreaks, needed advance understanding control legionellosis.