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Michigan health officials are investigating a recent increase in cases of Legionnaires’ disease or a severe form of pneumonia.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services noted 107 cases reported in 25 counties between July 1 and July 14, which translates to a 569% increase over the same period in 2020 and a 161% increase over the same period in 2019.
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People get Legionnaires’ disease by inhaling Legionella bacteria, and although most healthy individuals do not get infected after exposure, some populations are at higher risk for the disease such as the elderly, smokers and those with compromised immune systems. health officials said.
The disease is not transmitted from person to person. Legionella pneumophila, a bacteria, is usually the cause of the disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. It can be found in soil and water, but more often causes infection when it multiplies in water systems such as spas and air conditioners.
“Recent weather trends, including rain, flooding and warmer weather, could play a role in the increase in reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease this summer,” said Dr Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS medical director and deputy director of health, in a statement released Monday. . “We want everyone to be aware of Legionnaires’ disease, especially if they have a higher risk of disease, and we ask healthcare providers to remain vigilant, test and treat appropriately.”
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Wayne County had the most confirmed cases at 19, followed by Oakland County (17), City of Detroit (17) and Macomb County (15), the statement said.
Warm, stagnant water encourages bacterial growth in water systems, and although cases of Legionella occur more frequently in summer and early fall, the increase in cases has been higher than expected this season, officials said, while also noting that reopening buildings may also contribute to the increase in cases. At the start of the week, no common source of infection had been identified.
Madeline Farber contributed to this report.
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