Legionnaires' disease--a potential hazard of rationalisation.

The cases of two elderly patients who complained of general malaise after they had undergone ward transfer (due to rationalisation of the rehabilitation service) are discussed. Both were pyrexial and had signs of pneumonic consolidation. Subsequent investigation revealed that their symptoms were due to infection with Legionella pneumophila. Their cases highlight the problems associated with ward closures and the hazards of stagnant water.