Water Wheel Nov/Dec 2025: Water-Related Diseases

Abstract

Closer scrutiny needed to manage outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease in SA water systems Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the contamination of water with Legionella bacteria. These bacteria are ubiquitous in nature and can also spread and settle in treated drinking water systems – especially in large buildings or when distribution systems are old or poorly maintained. The disease was only discovered following the first known outbreak in 1976. It started in a high-rise hotel in the United States during a convention of American Legion military veterans – hence the name Legionnaires’ disease. Despite prior chemical treatment and the high water temperatures in geysers, these opportunistic pathogens can survive stressful conditions in water distribution systems and cause Legionellosis (also known as Pontiac fever or Legionnaires’ disease). Symptoms include a severe headache, fever, chills, chest pains and dry cough, and can be fatal – especially in vulnerable populations.

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