Attention Alanya! This epidemic has intensified alongside the use of air conditioners
Increasing use of air conditioning with the arrival of summer months causes an increase in the cases of pneumonia caused by Legionella pneumophila bacteria in children. Experts state that diseases are increasing due to air conditioning exposure, especially in hotels and resorts, and that the most affected group is children.
Legionella bacteria causes Legionnaires' disease, which occurs as a result of growth in air conditioners. This disease causes more pneumonia in children than COVID-19. Citizens need to be careful when using air conditioners, and especially people with chronic diseases need to be even more sensitive. Among the people staying in hotels and holiday villages, almost half of those who say "I was hit by the air conditioner" are diagnosed with these diseases. There are serious, unprecedented cases of childhood bronchitis and pneumonia. Recently, it has been seen that Legionella bacteria causes much more pneumonia in the pediatric age group than COVID-19.
Danger for Those with Chronic Diseases
Legionella pneumophila bacteria can be fatal in those with chronic conditions. Elderly and chronically ill citizens need to be careful. Bacteria can generally multiply easily in warm water. The disease is transmitted to humans through inhalation of water droplets suspended in the air.
Cleaning of Air Conditioners is Important
Air conditioners need to be cleaned well. Since complaints are less common in air conditioning pneumonia, it may not be well understood. It can have life-threatening consequences for those with chronic diseases. Since children cannot express what they feel, they may face serious cases of pneumonia when they consult a doctor with complaints of prolonged cough and fever.
Things to Consider When Using Air Conditioning
Citizens who are or will be on holiday, especially their children, need to pay attention to the cleanliness and exposure of the air conditioners they turn on while traveling by vehicle. They should take care of themselves, especially in closed places. It is recommended not to lower the air conditioning settings below 22 degrees and not to be exposed to too much temperature change.
What is Legionnaires' Disease?
Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the bacteria Legionella pneumophila. The disease is transmitted through inhalation of water droplets suspended in the air. Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, headache, nausea and vomiting. The disease can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.
