Patients live in western part of city, health department says
PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — A fourth patient has been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease in Plattsburgh.
The Clinton County Health Department confirmed the new case Thursday.
The residents sickened have been hospitalized with pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria.
They all live in the western part of Plattsburgh.
The health department and New York State Department of Health were investigating the source of the Legionella bacteria in Plattsburgh.
The bacteria causes Legionnaires’ disease. The patients’ conditions have not been released.
The first three patients were diagnosed in October.
Other residents in the area were being provided with information about the bacteria and symptoms of the disease.
The bacteria exists naturally in water and moist soil. At high concentrations, the health department said the bacteria can cause serious illness, especially to those with other risk factors.
Legionella cannot be passed from person to person or by drinking water. The bacteria causes cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, headache and fever.
Healthy people may not experience any symptoms, the health department said. Residents with underlying health conditions include those over the age of 50, current or former smokers or those with lung disease or weakened immune systems.
A cooling tower in a South Bronx hotel was identified as the source of a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak that sickened more than 100 people and killed at least 12 last year.
Anyone concerned about exposure can call the health department at 518-565-4848.
Full article: http://www.mynbc5.com/article/3-plattsburgh-residents-sickened-by-legionnaires-disease/6233584