COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)–The Department of Administrative Services has confirmed several water samples at the Rhodes State Office Tower have tested positive for legionella.
Tom Hoyt with the DAS confirmed to NBC4 that legionella bacteria was found at three of 31 locations tested in Rhodes Tower.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends that the water system be cleaned if legionella levels are above 10 colony forming units per milliliter (cfu/ml).
According to an email sent to staff, one sample that tested above OSHA guidelines, at 34 cfu/ml. It was in an infrequently used basement-level men’s shower. The two other areas that had low positive results were in the kitchenette area on the 40th floor and a utility closet on the basement level. Both tested below 1 cfu/ml.
The Centers for Disease Control say Legionella bacteria can cause several types of illnesses. 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.