If this happens, people can become ill from breathing contaminated air. Fortunately, the chances of catching Legionnaire's Disease are very small. The people most at risk are those who already have respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis, people with lowered immunity, especially elderly people, and people with diabetes. Smokers and people who drink a lot of alcohol also have a higher risk. Legionnaire's Disease can occur at any time of the year, but is more likely to be a problem during April - this is when the temperature cools down and air conditioning systems are being turned on and off.
Spa pools can also be breeding grounds for legionella.
But about 25 per cent of cases of Legionnaire's Disease have nothing to do with air conditioning - they're caused by a different type of legionella which lives in potting mix and soil. Anyone with symptoms such as sudden high temperature, dry cough, shortness of breath, chills and headaches, stomach cramps and diarrhoea and muscular aches and pains should see a doctor immediately. 7517 GPO Box 1614, Sydney, NSW 2001, Australia This site has been made possible with the cooperation and support of NSW Health Dept and South Eastern Sydney Area Health Service.