This assignment explores several online sources that contain materials on the impact of Legionaries’ Disease to public health and its association with the role of a Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer. Legionaries’ Disease is caused by roughly 35 Legionella bacteria species, with symptoms of severe pneumonia and psychological changes. (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 2015) With an increase of the elderly population in North America and the use of statistical data, the predicted trend of Legionaries’ Disease cases is on the rise. Therefore, the active roles of a Public Health Inspector/Environmental Health Officer are very important in prevention and control. Synonyms of Legionaries’ Disease …show more content…
(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.) The beginning symptoms are gradual, with common flu headache, body aches, and a fever. This progresses on to symptoms of pneumonia such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, and even gastrointestinal upset. (McDade, 2007) In addition, Legionnaires’ Disease causes more diarrhea, puking than that of regular pneumonia, therefore dehydration is prevalent. (Simon, 2012) The statistical occurrence of Legionnaires’ Disease in North America is expected to be on the rise. As the reported cases in the United States increased 286% between the years 2000 to 2014. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016)
Prevention and Control
Prevention and control of Legionnaires’ disease are as easy as thorough cleaning of the places it likes to grow, such as air conditioning systems and cruise ship water holding areas. Treatment consists of basic pneumonia protocols such as oxygen and fluid treatment. Legionnaires’ disease is also treated with antibiotics, usually erythromycin, although different antibiotics can be used. (Bennett, J.E., Dolin R, & Blaser, M. J.,