12 Aug 2024 | 12:56 PM UTC
Australia: Legionnaires’ disease outbreak reported in Melbourne in August
Legionnaires’ disease outbreak reported in Melbourne, Australia, in August. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
Health officials have reported a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Melbourne, Victoria, with a significant increase in cases reported across multiple areas in metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding areas since 26 July. As of Aug. 11, 109 confirmed and four suspected cases have been reported. All cases reside in or have visited metropolitan Melbourne. The source of this outbreak, a cooling tower, has been found, tested on July 30, and disinfected. Health officials urge people who reside in or have visited metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding areas before July 31 and develop disease symptoms to seek urgent medical care. This report represents the most complete data available as of Aug. 12.
Seek medical attention if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Health officials are confident that the source of the outbreak has been controlled. Still, they acknowledge that some individuals may have yet to develop symptoms or are already symptomatic but have not sought testing or medical care. Test results indicate that the outbreak is caused by Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1, a strain of Legionella predominantly found in water systems and not in potting mixes.
Legionnaires' disease is caused by a bacteria (Legionella) that spreads through aerosolized water droplets. Legionella is found in natural bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, creeks, and hot springs. It is also found in spas, warm water systems, and artificial systems that use water for cooling, heating, or industrial processes, such as cooling towers. The disease is not transmitted from person to person. Symptoms typically appear 2-14 days after exposure; however, it can take longer. Symptoms include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms, such as confusion, diarrhea, or nausea, can also occur. Legionnaires’ disease can lead to serious illness, and cases may require hospitalization. People aged 40 and older, smokers, and those with chronic conditions are at greatest risk of severe illness.
