An investigation is underway after a day spa in a major city was identified as the likely source of a deadly outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease.
The outbreak reportedly began in March, when at least 10 cases of Legionnaires’ disease were reported to the city’s health department. Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia that can be life-threatening. It is caused by inhalation of small droplets of water contaminated with the bacteria Legionella. The outbreaks can be traced to source water systems, hot tubs, fountains, and air conditioning systems.
After an investigation, the health department pinpointed the source of the outbreak to a popular day spa. Inspectors visited the spa and found that the hot tub system was breeding high amounts of the bacteria Legionella. The hot tub was immediately closed, and the spa has since closed its doors indefinitely in response to the outbreak.
Although it is still unknown how many people were infected by the outbreak, the number of infected is expected to rise as more tests are conducted. Those that have been infected are receiving treatment in local hospitals and are reported to be in stable conditions.
The city’s health department is urging anyone who may have visited the spa in the past few months to get tested for Legionnaires’ disease, as the symptoms can often be subtle and go unnoticed.
The health department is also working with the spa to identify any contributing factors that may have played a role in the outbreak. They are conducting a thorough examination of the spa’s water and air conditioning systems as well as inspecting the facility for any other potential sources of Legionella bacteria.
The investigation is ongoing, and the results of the official cause of the outbreak are expected to be concluded soon. In the meantime, the city health department is urging people to remain vigilant in observing health and safety protocols in order to reduce the risk of Legionnaires’ disease.
