3 Legionnaires' Cases Linked To Central DuPage Hospital

WINFIELD, IL — The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is investigating three cases of Legionnaires' Disease that may be linked to Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield. Authorities say one person was an inpatient visitor and two people were outpatient visitors to the hospital before they were diagnosed with Legionnaires'.

In a press release, IDPH said it's possible the cases were contracted at Central DuPage Hospital. They added that it's also possible the Legionnaires' was contracted elsewhere in the 10 days before their symptoms became apparent.

IDPH says it is working with Central DuPage Hospital to investigate the incident. They will conduct onsite testing of the hospital's water. IDPH is also working with Central DuPage Hospital to improve its water management system as a precautionary measure.

Legionnaires' Disease is a serious and sometimes fatal lung infection caused by naturally occurring Legionella bacteria. The bacteria can be put into the air by showers, fountains, hot tubs, and large plumbing systems like that of hotels, nursing homes, and hospitals.