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Context:

Health authorities in Sydney are dealing with an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease.

About Legionnaires' Disease

It is a type of lung infection (pneumonia) caused by bacteria called Legionella. These bacteria naturally live in freshwater, like lakes and streams, but they can also grow in man-made water systems like hot tubs, cooling towers used for air conditioning, and plumbing.

People get infected by breathing in contaminated water droplets or mist. The symptoms are similar to other types of pneumonia and include:

High fever
Cough
Muscle pain
Headaches
Shortness of breath
Confusion, diarrhea, or nausea in some cases

The Legionella bacteria cause two main illnesses:

Legionnaires’ Disease: A severe form of pneumonia that affects the lungs and requires medical treatment.
Pontiac Fever: A milder respiratory illness that doesn’t affect the lungs as badly and often goes away on its own

Doctors diagnose Legionnaires’ Disease by testing a patient’s spit (sputum) or urine to check for the Legionella bacteria. If they find it, they treat the infection using strong antibiotics. Most people recover fully if treated early, but without treatment, the disease can be deadly—about 10–25% of cases can lead to death.

Scientists are witnessing that cases of Legionnaires’ Disease are increasing rapidly worldwide. This could be because of old plumbing systems, poor maintenance of water systems, or climate change affecting how bacteria grow. The rise in cases has made it a growing concern for public health.

Source:

DAIJIWORLD

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. What factor predominantly intensifies the spread of Legionnaires’ disease?

A. Seasonal fluctuations in rainfall increase mosquito breeding.

B. Inadequate maintenance of water systems.

C. Overcrowding in slums heightens direct human-to-human respiratory transmission.

D. Poor vaccination coverage reduces herd immunity against bacterial pneumonia.

Answer: B

Explanation:

Legionnaires' disease is caused by Legionella bacteria, which flourish in warm, stagnant water environments. The bacteria predominantly spread when people inhale microscopic water droplets (aerosols) containing the bacteria. Man-made water systems like cooling towers, large plumbing systems, hot tubs, and decorative fountains are common sources if they are not properly cleaned and maintained.

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