lilts two drivers • Doctors have issued an alert after
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two British truck drivers contracted a potentially lethal bug from the showers at a Spanish lorry park. The unnamed drivers, who work for the same haulage company in the North-East, were struck down by legionnaires' disease, a form of pneumonia which can kill without prompt treatment.
They fell ill last month after driving in separate vehicles via Dover to a lorry park and hotel in northern Spain. After using the showers and sleeping the night in their cabs, they became sick and were treated by Spanish doctors.
Legionnaires' disease is caused by bacteria commonly found in water and soil. The organism is able to multiply rapidly and showers and taps can harbour high concentrations of the bug. Victims catch the illness by inhaling tiny droplets of contami noted water and usually fall ill within two to 10 days. Initial symptoms include aches and pains but can rapidly progress to high temperature, shivering, a cough and shortness of breath. Antibiotics are used to fight the disease but must be given as soon as possible. Scientists at the Government's Public Health Laboratory Service say the Spanish authorities are investigating the incident. But they warn long-distance truck drivers heading for the Continent to be aware of thedangers.