What should I do if I suspect Legionnaires' disease?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Legionnaires' disease is a serious form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, and early diagnosis is critical to prevent complications like respiratory failure or kidney damage. If you suspect you have it, see a doctor promptly for testing (typically a urine antigen test or sputum culture) and antibiotic treatment. Symptoms often include high fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and headaches — but they can mimic other illnesses, which is why professional evaluation matters.

Not sure if your symptoms warrant a doctor's visit? Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you clarify what may be going on, understand possible causes, and decide on the right next steps — before a treatable infection becomes a life-threatening emergency.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia caused by bacteria. If you suspect you have it, the first thing to do is see a doctor. They can run tests to find out if you have the disease.

Steps to Take:

Visit a Doctor: Early diagnosis is important. The doctor will look at your symptoms and may order tests like a urine test or a chest X-ray.
Get Tested: Tests can help confirm if you have Legionnaires' disease. According to research, urine antigen tests and cultures are commonly used.
Follow Treatment: If diagnosed, the doctor will give you medicine to help you get better.

Why It's Important:

Early Diagnosis: Getting tested early can help in treating the disease before it becomes severe.
Accurate Testing: Tests are important because they help doctors know for sure if you have Legionnaires' disease, which can be similar to other illnesses.

If you're experiencing concerning symptoms, you can start by taking a free symptom checker test to better understand what might be causing them before your doctor's visit. Remember, only a healthcare professional can diagnose and treat Legionnaires' disease. Always follow their advice for the best care.

(References)

Cunha BA, Burillo A, & Bouza E. (2016). Legionnaires' disease. Lancet (London, England), 26231463.
Lee JV, Joseph C, & PHLS Atypical Pneumonia Working Group. (2002). Guidelines for investigating single cases of Legionnaires .... Communicable disease and public health, 12166305.
Cristovam E, Almeida D, Caldeira D, Ferreira JJ, & Marques T. (2017). Accuracy of diagnostic tests for Legionnaires' disease. Journal of medical microbiology, 28463665.

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