Two new cases of legionellosis confirmed at Batavia; total now 14

BATAVIA, Ill. (WLS) – Two new cases of legionellosis have been confirmed in the western suburbs of Batavia.

Twelve other cases have been reported since the month of August at Covenant Living in Holmstad, 700 W. Fabyan Parkway, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Health officials say the new cases are part of the same "community-based epidemic", bringing to 14 the total number of cases as of September 13, 2019.

Although the definitive cause has not been identified, the IDPH officials recommend corrective measures for suspicious sources.

Legionella bacteria are transmitted by droplets of water into the air and can cause severe lung infections and death.

In Illinois, 512 cases of Legionellosis have been reported in Illinois in 2018, of which 285 confirmed so far this year, the health department announced.