'Be careful about using air conditioning in the summer heat'

Air conditioners, which are frequently used both at home and in workplaces during hot weather, can pose serious health risks. Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Özkan Akyol warned citizens against Legionnaires' disease, a type of pneumonia spread through air conditioners.

Dr. Akyol stated that Legionella pneumophila, the bacteria that causes Legionnaires' disease, thrives in air conditioning filters at the right humidity and temperature. He added that this bacteria can reach the lungs through inhalation and cause serious health problems. Akyol shared that the disease first spread through the ventilation system of a hotel in the US in 1976, affecting many people. He emphasized that Legionnaires' disease is not transmitted from person to person, but it can cause outbreaks, especially in large hotels and workplaces.

RISK GROUPS SHOULD BE CAREFUL

Dr. Akyol emphasized that the risk of contracting the disease is particularly high in individuals with weakened immune systems, saying, “Diabetes patients, alcohol addicts, those undergoing chemotherapy, those with chronic kidney and lung disease, and smokers are in the high-risk group.”

Symptoms of the disease include:

Widespread muscle and joint pain

Headache

Weakness

Unrest

High fever

dry cough

Digestive system complaints such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea

These include impaired concentration, agitation, and, rarely, coma.

DO NOT CONFUSE WITH FLU INFECTION

Akyol noted that Legionnaires' disease can initially be confused with the flu, and that individuals experiencing such symptoms should definitely consult a doctor. He added that treatment involves antibiotics at the appropriate dose and for the appropriate duration.

UNCLEANED AIR CONDITIONERS ARE ALSO TRIGGERING OTHER DISEASES

Dr. Akyol noted that in addition to Legionnaires' disease, mold fungi accumulated in air conditioners can also cause allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma. He also emphasized the use of in-car air conditioners, emphasizing that air should be directed toward the windshield, not directly to the face or chest. Otherwise, he stated, conditions such as sinusitis, ear infections, and facial paralysis can occur.