New causes of pneumonia, meningitis, and disseminated infections associated with immersion.

Immersion in water increases the risk of infection by certain microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Physicians should be aware of this relationship because many of these infections are not normally encountered except in association with water exposure. The morbidity and mortality associated with these infections may be substantial. Clinical features of pneumonia, disseminated infection, and central nervous system infections are detailed.