Legionella Casos na Pennsylvania

10 Cases of Legionnaires’ Disease Reported in Pennsylvania

This week, it was reported that ten cases of Legionnaires’ disease have occurred at two care facilities in Western Pennsylvania. To date, no fatalities have been reported, but three people have been hospitalized with pneumonia-like symptoms. So far eight cases have occurred at one facility and two at another according to the Allegheny County Health Department.

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by a type of bacteria known as Legionella. Symptoms usually begin 2 to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria. Legionnaires’ disease can have symptoms similar to other forms of pneumonia, making it hard to diagnose. Signs of the disease may include a high fever, chills and coughing. In addition, some people may also suffer from muscle aches and headaches. Chest x-rays are often needed to find the pneumonia caused by the bacteria, and other tests can be done on phlegm, blood and urine to identify the bacteria in the body.