One dead, 12 infected in major Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Sydney
Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, typically spread through inhaling contaminated water droplets.
Health authorities are investigating a major outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Sydney’s Central Business District (CBD) that has left one person dead and at least 12 others infected.
According to New South Wales (NSW) Health, all individuals affected had spent time in the CBD between March 13 and April 5.
Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, typically spread through inhaling contaminated water droplets.
The disease can be life-threatening, especially in older adults or individuals with compromised immune systems.
A cooling tower in Sydney has tested positive for Legionella bacteria and is currently undergoing emergency cleaning and disinfection.
Investigations are ongoing to determine whether this tower is the source of the outbreak.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include fever, chills, cough, and shortness of breath, and may take up to 10 days to appear. NSW Health is urging anyone who was in the CBD during the affected period to monitor their health closely and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
"Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial," a NSW Health spokesperson said. "We are working with building managers to ensure all cooling systems are properly maintained and disinfected to prevent further cases."
Legionella bacteria thrive in warm water environments like cooling towers, hot tubs, and plumbing systems.
Regular maintenance is key to preventing outbreaks.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation and are urging the public to remain vigilant.