What are the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease?
The incubation period of Legionnaires’ disease is from two
to ten days; this is the time it takes before symptoms of the
illness appear after being exposed to the bacteria. For several
days, the patient may feel tired and weak. Most patients who are
admitted to the hospital develop a high fever, often greater than
39.5°C (103°F). A cough can be the first sign of a lung infection.
The cough may be sufficiently severe to cause sputum production
(coughed up mucous). Gastrointestinal stomach symptoms are common
with diarrhea being the most distinctive symptom. Many patients
have nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. Other common
symptoms include headaches, muscle aches, chest pain, and shortness
of breath.