North Carolina Issues Warning on Legionnaires’ Disease
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has issued a warning to residents about Legionnaires’ disease following a noted increase in cases.
This disease is a serious form of pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella. According to information from the Mayo Clinic, most infections occur when individuals inhale the bacteria from contaminated water or soil. Legionella can thrive in damp environments, such as air conditioning units, and certain outbreaks have been linked to hot tubs and whirlpools.
The NCDHHS reported that there was a rise of over 100 cases from the year 2024 to 2025.
Symptoms typically manifest within the first ten days and can include:
- Headaches
- Muscle pains
- A high fever, possibly reaching 104 degrees or more
By the second or third day, some individuals may experience:
- A cough that may produce mucus or blood
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest discomfort
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Confusion and other changes in mental status
To prevent outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease, it’s essential to monitor and maintain water systems. Some suggestions for home care include:
- Flushing faucets or showerheads that haven’t been used for three days or more, especially if plumbing work was done
- Ensuring proper maintenance and disinfecting hot tubs, adhering to manufacturer guidelines
- Using medical equipment like humidifiers or CPAP machines according to manufacturer instructions, and cleaning parts regularly
- Following instructions for cleaning and replacing all water filters, including those in refrigerators or at the tap
- Draining garden hoses to avoid stagnant water, and those at risk might consider wearing masks while gardening
- Using appropriate windshield wiper fluid, as Legionella can develop in the fluid tank if tap water is added
