Legionnaires' disease is a rare but serious lung infection caused by a bacterium. Antibiotics have saved many lives and research continues to develop new antibiotics. Genetic research should lead to more effective treatments.
Disease: Legionnaires' Disease
Last update: June 2006
Intro
FAQ: What does the future hold?
Active research is underway into new antibiotic treatments. The bacterium is being intensively studied to find out how it survives in man and to develop compounds which can kill it when it is in water.
In 2004, the genetic sequence for the bacterium has been identified. It is hoped that this will lead to the development of novel medicines and vaccines.
In 2004, the genetic sequence for the bacterium has been identified. It is hoped that this will lead to the development of novel medicines and vaccines.