FAIRFIELD CO., Ohio (WCMH)–The Fairfield County Department of Health confirmed Tuesday that there is a confirmed case of Legionnaires’ Disease in the county.
County health director Larry Hanna said the department is currently investigating it.
The Centers for Disease Control say Legionellosis is a respiratory disease caused by Legionella bacteria. If the bacteria infect the lungs and cause pneumonia, it is called Legionnaires’ disease. The bacteria can also cause a less serious infection that seems more like a mild case of the flu–this is commonly called Pontiac fever.
It is not spread from one person to another.
This bacterium grows best in warm water, like the kind found in
- Hot tubs
- Cooling towers (air-conditioning units for large buildings)
- Hot water tanks
- Large plumbing systems
- Decorative fountains
The CDC says the most common symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include cough, shortness of breath, high fever, muscle aches, and headaches.
These symptoms usually begin 2-10 days after being exposed to the bacteria, but it can take longer so people should watch for symptoms for about two weeks weeks after exposure.
