Two deaths linked to Legionnaires' outbreak in South Wales

A second death has been linked to the Legionnaires' Disease outbreak in south Wales.

To date, 14 people have been hospitalised with Legionnaires disease and two others have died. Three further possible cases are still under investigation.

The latest death of a seventy year old man from the disease on Wednesday follows that of a 64 year old woman from Pontypridd on Monday.

The outbreak in the south Wales valleys is being investigated by Public Health Wales, the Health and Safety Executive and environmental health officers from seven local authorities to try to find the source of the outbreak.

Dr Gwen Lowe, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health Wales said: “Legionnaires’ disease is a rare but potentially life threatening illness.

“Most of the cases of Legionnaires’ disease that are notified to us are isolated cases, but outbreaks can occur.

“People become infected when they inhale Legionella bacteria which are spread through the air in the form of a fine mist or droplets from a contaminated water source. Legionnaires’ disease cannot be passed from person to person.”

Legionella bacteria are found in most types of fresh water including rivers and streams.

Most people become infected after breathing in aerosols from a contaminated artificial water supply such as faulty air conditioning, contaminated showers and even spa pools. The bacteria thrive in warm water.

Legionnaires' disease usually begins with 'flu-like' symptoms including muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever. Symptoms are usually seen between two to 19 days after coming into contact with the bacterium.

In 2009, there were 24 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in Wales.

Dr Lowe said anyone who is concerned about their health should visit their GP.

This article was published on Thu 9 September 2010