Legionella dumoffii

Species of bacterium

Legionella dumoffii is a species of bacteria in the genus Legionella. It is one of the many species of bacteria that can cause Legionnaires' disease, a type of pneumonia.

Characteristics

Legionella dumoffii is a Gram-negative bacterium. Like other members of the genus Legionella, it is an aerobic organism that thrives in water environments. It is known to inhabit natural and man-made water systems, such as cooling towers, hot tubs, and plumbing systems.

Pathogenicity

Legionella dumoffii is a pathogen that can cause respiratory infections in humans. It is less common than Legionella pneumophila, the primary cause of Legionnaires' disease, but it can still lead to serious illness, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of infections caused by Legionella dumoffii typically involves culture methods, urinary antigen tests, and PCR (polymerase chain reaction) assays. Treatment usually involves the use of antibiotics such as macrolides or fluoroquinolones.

Prevention

Preventing infections by Legionella dumoffii involves maintaining and monitoring water systems to prevent the growth and spread of the bacteria. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of water systems, as well as maintaining appropriate temperature and chlorine levels.

See also

• Legionnaires' disease
• Legionella pneumophila
• Waterborne diseases

External links

• CDC - Legionella
• WHO - Legionellosis