Four men from Camden and Narellan contract Legionnaires’ disease

Authorities are working together to try and determine the source of the infections that led to four people being diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease.

Four people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease in southwest Sydney leaving authorities trying to determine the source of the infections.

Four men aged in their 60s and 70s, from Camden and Narellan, have contracted Legionnaires’ disease in the past five weeks and South Western Sydney Local Health District’s Public Health Unit, in collaboration with Camden Council, is investigating the cases.

While the men are recovering, no specific source has been identified yet and investigations are continuing, including further testing of local water sources.

The District’s Public Health Director Dr Naru Pal said it is timely to remind businesses and building owners of their obligations under the Public Health Regulation 2012 to ensure their cooling towers are properly maintained.

“If there is any possibility that a system is not operating correctly, it should be cleaned and appropriate disinfection procedures undertaken as soon as possible,” he said.

Camden Hospital. Picture: AAP Image / Angelo Velardo

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by bacteria known as Legionella pneumophila. It can cause severe respiratory symptoms. Outbreaks in the past have been linked to contaminated airconditioning plants in large buildings.

Symptoms can develop up to 10 days after exposure to contaminated water particles in the air. Symptoms can be similar to Covid-19 and include fever, chills, a cough and shortness of breath.

Dr Pal said Legionnaires’ disease could lead to severe chest infections such as pneumonia.

“Legionnaires’ disease is diagnosed by chest x-ray and a urine test, and usually requires antibiotic treatment,’’ he said.

“If you have tested negative for Covid-19 but have ongoing or worsening symptoms, you should see your doctor or visit your local emergency department.’’

In 2018, NSW Health strengthened the Public Health Regulation to reduce the community’s risk of Legionnaires’ disease, requiring building owners to conduct monthly tests on cooling towers and notify high levels of Legionella and other bacteria to local councils.