Legionnaires’ Outbreak in Grand Rapids: State Identifies Source in City’s Water System
In a recent update, the Department of Health has revealed that they have identified the source of the Legionnaires’ outbreak in Grand Rapids. The data points to areas within the city’s water system as the culprit behind the outbreak. Since April 2023, there have been a total of fourteen confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the area. While eleven individuals required hospitalization, fortunately, no deaths have been reported.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling Legionella bacteria found in water. The likely case exposures have been geographically clustered in homes and other buildings in specific areas of Grand Rapids. These areas include the region north of Golf Course Road/SE 10th Street, south of NE/NW 8th Street, east of 11th Avenue SW/10th Avenue NW, and west of 7th Avenue SE/8th Avenue NE.
Tom Hogan, director of MDH’s Environmental Health Division, stated, “We are working in partnership with the local water utility to determine the best way to address the situation.” He further added, “Additional water sampling is planned, and the results will be analyzed and used to inform additional actions and communication.”
Legionella bacteria are commonly found in both natural and manmade aquatic environments and can exist in low concentrations within any public water system. It thrives and grows in stagnant water between temperatures of 70°F and 120°F, particularly when not treated with adequate water treatment chemicals like chlorine. Interestingly, the Grand Rapids Public Utilities water supply is one of the few community water systems in Minnesota that does not chlorinate its water. This is due to certain systems that draw water from groundwater sources, such as community wells, not being obligated to add disinfectants.
Julie Kennedy, the General Manager of Grand Rapids Public Utilities, emphasized their immediate focus on developing a provisional plan to flush and disinfect the affected areas of the water system. She mentioned that the installation of a chlorination system is being considered, but introducing chlorination to a previously unchlorinated system is a complex process. Therefore, a methodical approach is necessary to ensure the avoidance of any additional health, safety, or distribution system complications. Kennedy assured the public that they would provide local updates and customer notices as the plan develops. Additionally, they will be working closely with MDH and a team of experts to conduct a thorough assessment of the water distribution system to determine the best long-term solution.
The Legionnaires’ outbreak in Grand Rapids has raised concerns among residents and officials alike. The identification of the source within the city’s water system is a significant step towards addressing the issue. With ongoing efforts to flush and disinfect the affected areas, as well as the potential introduction of a chlorination system, it is hoped that the risk of Legionella contamination will be significantly reduced. The collaboration between the Department of Health, Grand Rapids Public Utilities, and a team of experts highlights the commitment to finding a long-term solution that prioritizes the health and safety of the community.
As investigations continue and further actions are taken, it is crucial for residents to stay informed through local updates and notices. By working together and implementing necessary measures, Grand Rapids can overcome this outbreak and ensure a safer water supply for its residents.
