Legionnaires’ Disease cases Rise in Central Iowa,One Fatality reported
Marshalltown,Iowa – An outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease is affecting central Iowa,with 21 confirmed cases reported in Marshall County as of today.Tragically, one death has been linked to teh outbreak; the deceased was an older adult with pre-existing health conditions.
The Marshall County Public Health Department is collaborating with the Iowa Department of Health and human Services (Iowa HHS) and federal health officials to investigate the source of the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Legionnaires’ disease is a respiratory illness caused by Legionella bacteria, commonly found in water systems. Symptoms resemble pneumonia and include fever and cough.While treatable with antibiotics, approximately 10% of cases are fatal.Iowa HHS Medical Director Dr. Robert Kruse emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis,stating,”Iowans should know that Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics if diagnosed early.”
Individuals aged 50 and older, smokers, and those with chronic lung conditions are considered at higher risk and are urged to seek medical attention promptly if they develop respiratory symptoms. Doctors in the Marshalltown area have been advised to consider Legionnaires’ disease testing for patients presenting with pneumonia. Anyone who has spent time in north central Marshalltown and develops pneumonia-like symptoms within 14 days is encouraged to consult their physician.
To help mitigate the spread of the bacteria, Iowa HHS is urging businesses with cooling towers, hot tubs, or decorative fountains to proactively review and maintain their water management practices. Recommendations include:
Establishing, maintaining, or reviewing a thorough water management program.
Regularly disinfecting cooling towers and water systems to inhibit bacterial growth.
Performing routine maintainance on water systems.
Conducting Legionella testing, especially after any remediation efforts.
While cases tend to increase during the summer months, Legionnaires’ disease can be contracted year-round. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates a nationwide increase in cases since 2000, with a notable spike in 2018.