Legionella In Water Prompts MD To Close State Buildings: Reports

BALTIMORE, MD — Several state office buildings in Baltimore’s State Center complex temporarily shut down this week after Legionella bacteria was detected in the water system, according to multiple reports citing officials.

A memo sent to employees from the Department of General Services said three buildings would shut down on a rotating basis this week while the water pipes are flushed and sanitized, the Washington Post reported.

The affected buildings are located at 201 W. Preston St., 301 W. Preston St. and 1100 N. Eutaw St. The buildings house the departments of health, labor, general services, and budget and management.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Legionella is a bacteria that spreads through water systems and devices. The bacteria enters the human body by breathing in droplets or swallowing water into the lungs.

Legionella bacteria can cause a serious type of pneumonia known as Legionnaires’ disease. It usually takes 2 to 14 days after exposure to Legionella bacteria to develop Legionnaires' disease symptoms. Symptoms include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches and shortness of breath.

Most healthy people exposed to Legionella don't get sick. People at increased risk of getting sick include current or former smokers, people 50 years or older, and people with specific health issues or conditions.

Chase Cook, communications director for the Maryland Department of Health, told Maryland Matters the department wasn't aware of any illnesses affecting state workers.

Reports of Legionella at the affected buildings began in November. Water systems were previously flushed, but officials said the bacteria was still present as of last week, Maryland Matters reported.