Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak in Northern Minnesota Linked to City Water System
An outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in northern Minnesota has been traced back to the city water system, according to state health officials. The Minnesota Department of Health has identified parts of the water system in Grand Rapids as the source of the outbreak, which has resulted in 14 confirmed cases since last April. While 11 of those affected required hospitalization, fortunately, no deaths have been reported.
Taking the situation seriously, Jessica Hancock-Allen, director of the health department’s Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Prevention and Control Division, emphasized the importance of seeking medical attention if symptoms of pneumonia, such as cough, shortness of breath, fever, and headache, arise. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment can effectively treat most cases of Legionnaires’ disease.
In response to the outbreak, Grand Rapids Public Utilities is working on a plan to flush and disinfect the water system. Tom Hogan, director of the health department’s Environmental Health Division, stated that additional water sampling will be conducted to inform further actions and communication. Notably, Grand Rapids is one of the few community water systems in Minnesota that does not chlorinate its water. This is because certain systems drawing water from groundwater sources, like community wells, are not required to add disinfectants.
Julie Kennedy, general manager of Grand Rapids Public Utilities, acknowledged the consideration of adding chlorination to the water system but emphasized the need for a methodical approach to avoid any potential complications. Introducing chlorination to an unchlorinated system requires a complex process that cannot be done quickly. The utility plans to keep customers informed as plans develop.
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by exposure to Legionella bacteria. Health officials have clarified that the disease is spread through breathing in water mist, such as from a shower, and not through drinking water or person-to-person contact.
In 2023, Minnesota reported 134 cases of Legionnaires’ disease, resulting in six deaths. However, it is important to note that most people exposed to Legionella bacteria do not develop the disease. Individuals aged 50 years and older, current or former smokers, and those with chronic health conditions such as lung, kidney, or liver disease, diabetes, cancer, or weakened immune systems are at an increased risk of infection and severe illness.
To reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, the health department has provided several recommendations for residents. These include regularly cleaning devices that use water, such as medical equipment, humidifiers, shower heads, and faucet aerators. When using medical equipment that requires water, such as CPAP or BiPAP machines or Neti Pots, it is advised to use only distilled water. For portable humidifiers, options include distilled water, water that has been boiled and cooled, or water disinfected with chlorine bleach. Additionally, maintaining water heaters at a minimum temperature of 120 degrees can help eliminate harmful germs, although precautions should be taken to avoid scalding when increasing the temperature to 130-140 degrees.
As the investigation into the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak continues in northern Minnesota, health officials and utilities are working diligently to address the situation and ensure the safety of the community’s water supply. By following the recommended precautions and seeking prompt medical attention when necessary, residents can play an active role in reducing the risk of waterborne illnesses.
