MARSHALL COUNTY, Iowa — Cases of Legionnaires’ disease have jumped again in Marshall County.
On Tuesday, the number of cases rose to 61, nearly an additional ten cases after 52 were reported over the weekend. Only one death has been reported during the outbreak.
Iowa HHS and the Marshall County Public Health Department, with the help of the CDC, are investigating the cause of the cluster. Past outbreaks of the disease have been linked to decorative fountains, humidifiers, and even grocery store vegetable misters, Iowa HHS says.
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Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrives in warm water and is typically spread through the inhalation of aerosolized water droplets like mist.
According to Iowa HHS, the disease largely impacts those who are 50 or older, have a weakened immune system, or have a chronic respiratory condition like asthma. If diagnosed early, Iowa HHS says the disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
Anyone who experiences the following symptoms and has spent time in Marshall County recently is encouraged to visit their primary care doctor.
For more information about Legionnaires’ disease visit the Iowa HHS website.
