What Is Legionnaires’ Disease And What Does It Have To Do With Hot Tubs?

Hot Tubs

Although there are many advantages to using hot tubs for pain relief, stress reduction, and socialization, unsanitary water systems can be a serious health hazard. Public pools and hot tubs must be especially vigilant in their sanitation process to avoid harming patrons. If you can afford it, you should get your own hot tub. TubHQ is an excellent website that shows different hot tub models for every budget. Nonetheless, you should keep your hot tub in sanitary conditions to avoid diseases such as Legionnaires’ Disease.

Defining Legionnaires’ Disease

It is also known as atypical pneumonia, but is specifically the kind that is caused by a bacteria from the Legionella species. As a hot tub patron or owner, you should know that this bacteria is present naturally in fresh water and it is spread by contaminated mist. Symptoms include fever, chills, coughing (either dry or with sputum). The disease is also known as a form of “walking” pneumonia because bed rest and hospitalization is not always indicated. However, if left untreated, the disease can cause death, so it is not to be taken lightly. The death rate is 10% for healthy patients and rises to 25% for those with underlying conditions.

Treating And Preventing The Disease

There are no vaccinations against Legionnaires’ Disease, and treatment generally involves a mix of antibiotics. Most experts agree that it is not a contagious disease, meaning that it does not transfer from one person to the other. Preventing the disease mainly focuses on the proper treatment of water systems in general.

What Does It Have To Do With Hot Tubs?

As previously mentioned, the bacteria is found naturally in fresh water. Hot tubs maintain temperatures that are ideal for bacterial growth. Additionally, hot tubs are not typically drained after each use, increasing the chance of infection. This is why it is especially important for hot tub owners (whether public or private) to maintain the proper sanitation and pH levels of the water. Several solutions are available nowadays that can kill any bacteria (even this one) in the water. They are designed with this type of bacteria in the water, without damaging the hot tub surfaces and equipment. For better sanitation, most hot tub experts recommend that people rinse off with water before entering the hot tub. That way, the risk of dirtying up the water.

Final Thoughts

Although Legionnaires’ Disease is not a common disease, there have been many outbreaks in hot tubs in the recent past. It is important for hot tub users to understand the risks they are taking when visiting irreputable establishments that are not very keen on keeping their hot tubs and other water systems in pristine sanitary conditions. Avoid any public water bodies that do not seem clean and sanitary enough. Use your judgement. The water should be clear, and it should not have a strong chemical smell. If you hear rumors about an establishment, try to avoid it to stay on the safe side.