A woman in her 90s has died from Legionnaires’ disease, which health authorities say is spreading across Melbourne’s north and west.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Clare Looker confirmed the fatality on Friday, saying the woman was admitted to hospital after falling ill on Tuesday.
There have now been 60 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the state, and Dr. Looker confirmed that 59 people have been hospitalized.
The source of the outbreak is linked to a cooling tower in Melbourne’s Laverton North and Derrimut area, he told reporters on Friday.
Health authorities are investigating and disinfecting towers in the area.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by legionella bacteria, which is found in natural bodies of water as well as in spas, hot water systems, potting mixes, and man-made systems that use water for cooling.
Symptoms usually include chest infection, aches, headache, fever, cough and chills.
People with underlying diseases, particularly those who are immunocompromised, the elderly, and smokers are at higher risk of infection.
Victorians who suffer from a chest infection should be sure to seek medical attention.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria.
WHAT IS LEGIONNAIRES’ DISEASE?
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia that causes lung inflammation.
It is caused by a bacteria, known as Legionella.
The condition can cause life-threatening complications such as respiratory failure, kidney failure and septic shock, which occurs when blood flow to vital organs is blocked.
Most people become ill by inhaling small water droplets from infected sources such as shower heads, hot tubs, swimming pools, or building ventilation systems.
Anyone can become infected, but people at risk include the elderly, smokers and those with weakened immune systems, such as chemotherapy patients.
Symptoms usually appear between two and ten days after exposure to the bacteria.
Early signs include:
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Fever and chills
People may then experience:
- Coughing, which may produce blood.
- Short of breath
- Chest pain
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Confusion
Treatment consists of antibiotics, usually in hospital, as soon as possible.
Prevention involves meticulous cleaning and disinfection of water systems.
People can reduce their risk by not smoking, since smoking damages the lungs and makes people more susceptible.
Source: Mayo Clinic