Possible Legionnaires’ Outbreak At Newark Senior Apartments

NEWARK, NJ — The City of Newark is working with the New Jersey Department of Health to investigate a suspected outbreak of Legionnaires’ Disease at a senior citizen apartment building, authorities announced Thursday.

The suspected outbreak took place at 2 Nevada Court in downtown Newark, according to a statement from Mark Wade, director of Health and Community Wellness.

City and state investigators are inspecting and testing the building’s water supply, and are working to inform residents about this issue, officials said.

One case of Legionnaires' Disease was reported in December and two others were reported in April. The three victims have recovered, ABC New York reported.

According to Newark officials:

“Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by bacteria called Legionella. People can get Legionnaires’ disease by breathing in aerosolized (small) droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria. Aerosolized water can come from showers, faucets, hot tubs, humidifiers, and decorative fountains. Legionnaires’ disease is not spread from person-to-person. The disease is treatable with common antibiotics, but it can be serious, especially for the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and those with compromised immune systems. Minimizing breathing in water mist and early medical diagnosis and treatment are the keys to minimizing negative outcomes.”

Newark officials said:

“The most important thing someone can do is to get medical attention right away if they start having symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches, and cough. This is even more important if they are aged 50 or older (especially if you smoke cigarettes), have chronic lung disease, have a weakened immune system, or take medicines that weaken your immune system.”

People who have one of the health issues above should take these extra steps as a precaution, officials said:

• “Consider taking a bath instead of a shower, since a shower could create a water mist. Try to minimize your time in the bathroom while the tub is filling.”
• “It is fine to brush your teeth, wash your hands, or wash dishes, but fill the sink slowly to avoid creating mist.”
• “It is fine to drink cold water from the tap but start with cold water when heating water for tea, coffee, or cooking. You cannot get Legionnaires’ disease by drinking water.”

People with questions about Legionnaires’ disease can contact the Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness at (973) 733-7592. Additional information about Legionnaires’ disease can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website here.

• See related article: Multiple Cases Of Legionnaires' Disease Appear In NJ
• See related article: Legionella Found At All But 3 West Orange Schools

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