CVPH in Plattsburgh, New York, has treated two patients with Legionnaires’ disease. It is not believed that the cases are related at this time, as the patients resided in different counties. Since the two diagnoses, the hospital has implemented that all patients presenting with pneumonia-like symptoms be tested for Legionnaires’ disease until August 13, 2017. The hospital has a program in place to prevent Legionella bacteria, and specifically contains a small level of chlorine in its water system as well as hyper-chlorinates its water twice a year. The water system is also tested every 90 days by a third party.…
Two inmates of the Franklin Medical Center prison hospital located at 1990 Harmon Ave in Columbus, Ohio were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. Administrators at the prison have indicated they are conducting environmental tests to determine the source of the Legionella bacteria responsible for these illnesses. Legionnaires’ disease is caused by inhaling Legionella bacteria either by drinking contaminated water or breathing in air that is contaminated with an aerosolized form of the bacteria, as often seen in mists from showers or spas. Not everyone who comes in contact with the bacteria becomes ill. However, those who are more likely to suffer from Legionella-related illness…