By Shelby Brooks
Two cases of Legionnaires’ disease have been detected in Cranbourne East.
The Department of Health issued a health alert on Wednesday 18 August, stating that the outbreak was being investigated.
Testing local cooling towers and other potential source such as pools and spas is underway.
The two cases were notified 18 August and both are residents of the Cranbourne East area.
They had symptoms commencing in August and required treatment in hospital.
People who have been in the Cranbourne East area from the start of August and develop flu-like illness should seek immediate medical attention.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella bacteria, which are widespread in our environment. They are found in natural water bodies such as rivers, lakes, creeks and hot springs.
The bacteria are also found in spas, potting mix, warm water systems and artificial systems that use water for cooling, heating or industrial processes, such as cooling towers.
A person may catch Legionnaires’ disease by breathing in fine droplets of water that contain the bacteria.
You cannot catch it from another person or by drinking contaminated water.
