NSW Health has recently issued a public health warning regarding Legionnaires’ disease in Sydney’s CBD, advising residents and visitors to be alert for related symptoms. Over the past three weeks, six unrelated individuals who visited the area have contracted the disease.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by the Legionella bacteria, with symptoms potentially appearing up to ten days post-exposure. Common indicators include fever, chills, cough, and shortness of breath, and in severe cases, it can lead to pneumonia.
The disease is not transmitted between individuals but can spread via contaminated water droplets from environmental sources, such as cooling towers in buildings. It has been noted that the exact source of the current outbreak remains unidentified, and the cases may not share a common cause. Vicky Sheppeard, Director of the South-Eastern Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit, confirmed that those infected have been hospitalised.
Sheppeard explained that individuals could be exposed to the bacteria if they inhale contaminated water particles. Those at heightened risk include the elderly, individuals with existing health conditions, and smokers.
In response to the situation, NSW Health is collaborating with the City of Sydney to review cooling tower maintenance records within the CBD. Inspections and water samples will be prioritised in affected areas to ensure compliance with health regulations.
Building proprietors are reminded of their responsibility to maintain cooling systems in accordance with health standards. Residents and visitors experiencing any health issues are encouraged to seek medical attention. For non-urgent health inquiries, the public can contact healthdirect at 1800 022 222, which is available 24/7.
For further details on the management of water-cooling systems, individuals can reach out to their local public health unit or visit the NSW Health website for more comprehensive information.