9 Legionnaires cases confirmed in Toronto: 'Cases may be linked'
· Toronto Sun
Toronto Public Health are investigating after testing confirmed nine cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the southeast area of the city.
In an emailed statement to the Toronto Sun , the health unit said the infections are likely connected, and noted the threat to the public is low.
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“The investigation indicates that these cases may be linked as they all occurred close together in time and location,” Toronto Public Health said. “No source has been identified, and the investigation is ongoing.”
The cases were identified in late March and early April.
“Public health officials have inspected the area for potential exposures, collected samples from possible sources in proximity to the cases, and collaborated with other city divisions, local public health units, and provincial and federal partners.”
What to know about Legionnaires
Legionnaires’ disease, which cannot be spread from person to person, is caused by the Legionella bacteria found in droplets of water. It can lead to pneumonia or flu-like symptoms.
While the bacteria appears in natural water sources, the illness is usually caused by poorly maintained water systems in places such as spas, health-care facilities, commercial buildings, and cruise ships.
Those who contract the disease may experience a fever, chills, headaches, and muscle or abdominal pain within two weeks of exposure.
“The severity can range from mild to severe,” Health Canada says . “In some cases, symptoms can progress quickly to organ failure and death.”
Older adults, smokers and people with underlying health conditions may experience more severe symptoms and may need to seek treatment, which usually involves antibiotics.
2005 outbreak killed 23 people
In September 2005, an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease linked to a Scarborough long-term care facility led to the deaths of 23 people and sickened more than 100.
The outbreak at Seven Oaks saw a total of 135 people infected — 70 residents, 39 staff, 21 visitors, and five people who lived or worked near the care home.
The cause of the illness was unknown during the first 10 days of that outbreak.