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LANSING, MI (WILX) – The state of Michigan is experiencing an increase in the number of cases of legionellosis.
Legionellosis is a respiratory infection infected with Legionella bacteria. Legionellosis is an infection whose symptoms include fever, cough and pneumonia.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is working with local state health departments to investigate legionellosis cases this summer.
So far, in 2019, 140 confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease have been reported in 38 counties, compared to 135 cases during the same period in 2018.
Confirmed cases include 19 in Oakland County, 16 in Wayne County, 13 in Macomb County, 11 in Genesee County and 10 cases each in the City of Detroit.
This increase is correlated with national legionella increases, which are more common in summer and early fall when standing water warms, creating the best environment for bacterial growth in aquatic systems.
"With the good days ahead, we want everyone to know about Legionnaires' disease, especially if they are more likely to contract the disease," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, Medical Director and Deputy Director of Health MDHHS. "We also want all health care providers to remain vigilant, carry out testing and treat patients appropriately."
The Legionella bacteria is found in lakes and freshwater streams, but can also be found in artificial water systems.
Transmission of the bacteria to people occurs when the fog or vapor containing the bacteria is inhaled.
The risk factors for exposure include:
• Recent trip with overnight stay.
• Recent stay in a health facility.
• Exposure to hot tubs.
• Exposure to areas where plumbing has recently been serviced or repaired.
The people most at risk of getting infected are:
• People over 50 years old.
• current or former smokers.
• People with chronic lung disease.
• People whose immune system is weakened by diseases such as cancer, diabetes or liver or kidney failure.
• People taking immunosuppressive drugs.
More information on legionellosis and legionellosis is available here.
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