Can you become sick from ingesting water infected with Legionella bacteria?

The correct choice indicates that it is false that you can become sick from ingesting water infected with Legionella bacteria. This statement aligns with what is known about Legionella. While Legionella bacteria can cause a serious form of pneumonia known as Legionnaires' disease, the primary mode of transmission is not through drinking water but rather through inhalation of aerosolized water droplets, such as from showers, hot tubs, or cooling towers.

Ingesting water contaminated with Legionella is generally not regarded as a significant health risk because the stomach acids typically neutralize the bacteria before they can cause illness. Hence, while it is possible in theory for people to get sick if the bacteria are present in a very high concentration and if the conditions of the person's health are significantly compromised, this situation is uncommon. Consequently, drinking water contaminated with Legionella does not pose the same risk as breathing in aerosolized particles containing the bacteria.

This understanding highlights the need for proper water management and disinfection in facilities to prevent the growth of Legionella, particularly in warm, stagnant water environments where the bacteria can thrive.