Legionnaires’ Outbreak Connected to Maryland Condo Complex

Aug. 6, 2012 - PRLog -- Several months ago, WMDT reported that an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease had occurred in Maryland. Two people who had stayed at a condo complex came down with Legionnaires’ disease and the bacteria that causes the illness, Legionella, was found in the facility’s water system.

Legionella is a Gram-negative pathogenic type of bacteria.  It causes both Legionnaires’ disease and Pontiac Fever.  Each year, between 8,000 and 18,000 people are hospitalized with Legionnaires' disease in the U.S., but the numbers for Pontiac Fever are unclear as many cases are likely never reported.

Pontiac Fever is a much milder infection as compared to Legionnaires’ disease. The incubation period after exposure is believed to be approximately 24 to 48 hours.  Symptoms of Pontiac Fever usually last for 2 to 5 days and may include fever, headaches, and muscle aches; however, there is no pneumonia as is the case with Legionnaires’ disease.

One company that has been helping test for the Legionella bacteria across the Mid-Atlantic region is Sussex Environmental Health Consultants (SEHC).  “Most people have heard of Legionnaires' disease, but far fewer are aware of Pontiac Fever,” reported Susan White, Ph.D., CMC, President of SEHC.     “Symptoms of Pontiac Fever typically go away on their own without treatment, but it still causes illness.  Environmental testing can identify the Legionella bacteria to help prevent outbreaks or pinpoint the source of an outbreak if it has already occurred,” she continued.

SEHC recently sponsored an educational video about Legionella and Pontiac Fever that can be seen at:
http://youtu.be/kb56Q7kCaqk



To learn more about preventing infectious microbial pathogens, or other environmental and indoor air quality (IAQ) issues, please visit http://www.sussexenvironmental.com, email susan.white@mchsi.com or call (302) 947-1810.
 
About Sussex Environmental Health Consultants, LLC
SEHC is a certified woman owned business that provides environmental and health and safety consulting services.  The company is located in the Mid-Atlantic and services customers nationwide.  SEHC provides solutions to clients ranging from homeowners to international Fortune 500 Corporations.