Source of Legionnaires’ outbreak in Melbourne remains unknown

Victorian health authorities have issued a warning after an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease has infected 33 people in Melbourne, with another 10 suspected cases. All have been in metropolitan Melbourne in the past week. The number of confirmed cases has grown from 22 on Friday.

According to Chief Health Officer Dr Clare Looker, the hotspots for the outbreak are in the city’s northern and western suburbs.

“As soon as we have a better sense of particular locations of concern, we will be sharing that,” Looker says.

The Victorian Department of Health says the signs point to a single source of infection, most likely a cooling tower. The department has called for cooling tower operators to remain vigilant and ensure that their testing and servicing procedures are up to date.

Legionnaires’ disease can cause a chest infection with symptoms of fever, chills, cough, headache and muscle aches and pains. Other atypical symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and confusion.

People over 40 are most at risk of contracting the disease, especially if they smoke or have a chronic respiratory condition. Those who develop symptoms should seek urgent medical care.