Legionella Cases Emerge At Pittsburgh Hospital

PITTSBURGH, PA — Two patients at a Pittsburgh medical facility tested positive for Legionella, officials told multiple local media outlets.

The Legionalla cases occurred at the VA Medical Center in Oakland, according to WTAE-TV and WPXI-TV.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Legionella is a type of bacteria that can cause Legionnaire's Disease and Pontiac fever.

Legionnaires' Disease is a serious form of pneumonia but is treatable with antibiotics.

The sources of Legionella infection can be water systems that include:

• Showerheads and sink faucets
• Hot tubs
• Decorative fountains and water features
• Large, complex plumbing systems

Officials said the center's water lines have been treated, flushed and tested.