Officials investigating outbreak of Legionnaires disease in Rotherham
Officials are investigating an outbreak of Legionnaires disease in Rotherham.
It's after reported cases there.
The UK Health Security Agency say they are working closely with Rotherham Council to find out if and how the cases could be linked.
UKHSA said: "Specialists from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are investigating an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease linked to Rotherham. We are working closely with Rotherham Council and local partners to find out if and how the small number of cases are linked and to investigate any common sources.
"Legionnaires' disease causes a severe pneumonia which is caught by breathing in tiny droplets of water containing legionella bacteria, usually from sources such as air conditioning systems, showers and taps which are not properly designed, installed, and/or maintained. The bacteria only multiply to dangerous levels in standing water where nutrients are present, and temperatures are between 20°C and 45°C. Below 20°C, the bacteria remain dormant, and they cannot survive at temperatures above 60°C.
"To become infected with the disease, Legionella bacteria have to be inhaled in aerosolised form (tiny water droplets) from a contaminated source. The wider risk to public health is low as the disease is not usually passed from person to person."
Dr. Andy Irvine, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA Yorkshire & Humber, said:
"The outbreak was first identified when a higher than usual number of Legionnaires’ disease cases were reported in the last month. Some of these cases may be isolated incidents with no common source, however we are working to identify any links between cases and potential common sources for public health action. For a substantial proportion of Legionnaires' disease cases, the source is not always found.
"Signs and symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include a flu-like illness with muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever. Anyone with these symptoms should call NHS 111 or their GP for medical advice.
"Legionnaires' disease is routinely treated with antibiotics and may require hospital treatment. It is not usually passed from person to person."