Several Cases Of Legionnaires' Disease Reported In OC: What To Know

WESTMINSTER, CA — Seven cases of Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia, have been reported in the northwestern end of Westminster, the Orange County Health Care Agency reported Thursday.

According to the agency, investigations to identify potential sources of the infections — which could include cooling towers, pools, spas or other water sources in the area — have already begun.

"Legionnaires' disease is caused by Legionella bacteria and thrives in warm water environments and is typically spread through the inhalation of aerosolized water droplets, such as mist from cooling towers, hot tubs and decorative fountains," the OCHCA said in a statement.

While the type of pneumonia is not contagious from person to person, cases reported to the agency have steadily been increasing over the last five years, agency officials said.

The risk to anyone who lives or visits Westminster is very small, however, the agency officials said that individuals who live and work in the specified area should visit their health care provider immediately if they start to experience pneumonia-like symptoms.

Symptoms most associated with pneumonia and Legionnaires' disease include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Chest pain
• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea

For more information, visit the Orange County Health Care Agency's website.