Chicago: Legionella cases promptly launch Mercy hospital investigation

The Illinois Public Health Department (IDPH) is investigating two cases of legionellosis in patients possibly exposed to the Mercy Hospital & Medical Center in Chicago, as well as one case of Legionella in the water supply system. the establishment. The investigation is currently limited to this facility; the general public is not in danger.

The IDPH, along with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), were on hand Thursday to badess the reported presence of Legionella in the hospital's water distribution system and collect environmental samples for laboratory tests. Both agencies continue to collect information and investigate. IDPH provided the facility with information to provide to patients and families on Legionella. In addition, the institution conducts active surveillance to identify other potential cases and to ensure appropriate clinical testing and management.

The Mercy Hospital & Medical Center is working with a water management team, the IDPH and the CRPD, to strengthen its water management practices. The facility has already implemented protective measures, such as rinsing the water supply system, modifying or replacing sanitary fixtures, and installing filters on sinks.

Legionnaires' disease is a respiratory infection caused by Legionella bacteria. These bacteria can also cause a less serious illness called Pontiac fever. Fever, cough, shortness of breath, body aches, pneumonia and sometimes diarrhea and abdominal pain are the signs and symptoms of legionnaires' disease. Pontiac fever has similar symptoms but does not progress to pneumonia. Antibiotics are very effective against Legionella bacteria.

Legionella bacteria are commonly found in the environment (rivers, lakes, streams). It is a waterborne disease, usually transmitted by artificial water sources that aerosolize water, such as showers, hot water tanks, towers cooling, hot tubs and decorative fountains. People can contract legionellosis by breathing in a mist containing the bacteria. People can also be exposed to Legionella bacteria from a water that "goes through the wrong pipe" (suction). In general, bacteria do not spread from one person to the other.

People most at risk for Legionnaires' disease are the elderly, smokers / former smokers, weakened immune systems and other underlying or chronic health problems.