Health officials in New Hampshire report five cases of Legionnaires’ disease
Officials cautioned Lincoln, New Hampshire residents to watch for signs of Legionnaires’ disease after five individuals became unwell in June and July.
The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services on Monday connected the outbreak of the bacterial pneumonia — which results from inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria — to a cooling tower situated behind the RiverWalk Resort in downtown Lincoln.
“Those who have been near the infected cooling tower area should monitor themselves for symptoms,” stated Dr. Benjamin Chan, New Hampshire state epidemiologist, in a DHHS release.
“Individuals who experience fever or other signs of pneumonia within 14 days of being in this location should consult their healthcare provider about testing for Legionella infection,” he included.
The cooling tower has been disinfected and reinstated after consultation with state officials, according to RiverWalk Vice President Renee Blood who spoke with ABC News affiliate WMUR.
“As a precaution, additional tests will be conducted later this week,” Blood informed WMUR. The results of the tests are anticipated next week.
DHHS mentioned that the continued operation of the cooling tower could pose further exposure risks, particularly for individuals within a half-mile radius of the establishment.
“Anyone visiting the specified area should evaluate their health risk,” DHHS stated. “Those who are elderly, current or former smokers, have compromised immune systems, or have specific medical conditions such as chronic lung disease and diabetes are at higher risk of developing Legionnaire’s disease.”
Signs typically manifest between two and 14 days post exposure and may include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. The bacteria can also lead to severe pneumonia, a condition referred to as Legionnaires’ disease, which can be fatal if not treated.
DHHS noted, however, that the majority of healthy individuals exposed to Legionella bacteria do not become ill.
ABC News’ Victoria Arancio contributed to this report.