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KEY POINTS
- Michigan saw an increase in Legionnaires’ disease cases in the first half of July
- The number of cases is much higher compared to the same period in 2020 and 2019
- Legionella is found naturally in fresh water, but can also thrive in artificial water systems
Michigan authorities are investigating a recent spike in reports of Legionnaires’ disease. In the first half of July alone, the state recorded 107 cases of the illness.
Between On July 1 and July 14, 107 cases of the illness were reported in 25 counties, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) said on Monday. There is a 569% increase in cases this year compared to the same period in 2020 when there were only 16 cases. In 2019, 41 cases were reported in the first half of July.
“Although cases of Legionellosis are more common in summer and early fall during warming, standing water presents the best environment for bacterial growth in water systems, this increase is higher than expected for the Michigan for this time of year, ”said the MDHHS.
No common source of infections has yet been identified.
MDHHS Director General Dr Joneigh Khaldun added that recent “rains, floods and warmer weather” may also have contributed to this trend.
“We want everyone to be aware of Legionnaires’ disease, especially if they are at a higher risk of disease and we ask healthcare providers to remain vigilant, test and treat appropriately,” Dr Khaldun said in a statement.
Legionnaire’s disease
People can get Legionnaires’ disease or Pontiac fever after being exposed to Legionella bacteria, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentionned. Legionnaires are quite similar to other types of pneumonia and can cause symptoms such as cough, muscle pain, shortness of breath, fever, and headache.
People can be infected when they breathe in small droplets contaminated with the bacteria. Although most “healthy people” do not get sick after being exposed, some are at greater risk of getting sick. They include the elderly, people with cancer or underlying illnesses, people with weakened immune systems or taking immunosuppressive drugs, people with chronic lung disease, and smokers or former smokers. About one in ten people who contract Legionnaires’ disease die, according to the CDC.
Risk of armyworms in artificial water systems
While Legionella bacteria are found naturally in freshwater environments, they can become a “health problem” if they thrive and spread in man-made water systems, the CDC said.
In 2020, for example, health experts have warned the public, especially homeowners, to be careful when reopening commercial buildings after the coronavirus lockdown. The absence of water flow in the pipes, coupled with temperature irregularities, would be favorable conditions for the survival of bacteria.
The MDHHS said prolonged closures or limited use of buildings can create an environment for “potential amplification and transmission of Legionella bacteria.”
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