The 1976 Philadelphia outbreak at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel caused over 200 illnesses and 34 deaths.
Legionella pneumophila thrives in human-engineered water systems like cooling towers, humidifiers, and plumbing.
Reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease have surged fivefold in the U.S. since the year 2000.
Modern medical protocols now utilize rapid diagnostic tests and advanced antibiotics for more effective patient treatment.