Cases Of Legionnaires’ Disease Spikes In 2 NJ Counties: Officials

NEW JERSEY - The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is investigating an increase in Legionnaires’ disease cases across Middlesex and Union counties.

As of Tuesday, 21 people from Middlesex County and 20 people from Union County tested positive for Legionella, the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease, the NJDOH said.

The onset of symptoms occurred between Aug. 3 and Oct. 24.

No deaths have been reported.

“On average, each of these counties receives six to eight confirmed reports of Legionnaires’ disease from August to October each year,” the NJDOH said.

The department is collaborating with local health departments in Middlesex and Union counties to investigate these cases and any potential sources of infection.

In mid-October, NJDOH alerted local health departments, health care providers, and other public health partners in the area regarding the spike in the number of reported cases.

A common exposure among cases has not been identified.

Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia.

The symptoms are similar to those of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses such as the flu. Symptoms can include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle aches, and headache.

Only tests ordered by a doctor can confirm the diagnosis and Legionnaires’ disease is treatable with antibiotics.

The health department is encouraging residents who develop symptoms similar to COVID-19 or flu to get tested and seek medical evaluation.

The NJDOH has also recommended that anyone who develops these symptoms within two weeks of visiting Middlesex or Union county seek medical attention.

People can get Legionnaires’ disease by breathing in small droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria.

Aerosolized water can come from cooling towers, hot tubs, cooling water misters, decorative fountains, and plumbing systems.

In rare instances, people may also become sick when water containing Legionella is aspirated into the lungs while drinking, particularly among those with swallowing difficulties.

Each year, New Jersey receives around 250-375 reports of Legionnaires’ disease and works with local health departments to investigate potential sources of infection.

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