Breaking News: 3 Dead, 20 Hospitalized After Legionella Outbreak in Albany!
A serious Legionella outbreak at the Peregrine Shaker Senior Living Community in Albany has led to three deaths and hospitalized 20 people in the past week. The center has confirmed that ten residents tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease.
Legionnaires’ disease, a severe type of pneumonia, primarily affects older adults and those with weakened immune systems. Although the disease can be deadly, experts assure that it poses no risk of spreading from person to person.
Dr. Alan Sanders, chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Albany Medical Center, explained that Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious. Instead, it spreads through inhaling bacteria from water sources.
“This bacteria is commonly found in water supplies, such as cooling towers, air conditioning systems, and shower heads,” said Dr. Sanders. “People inhale water droplets containing the bacteria, which then infects the lungs.”
Albany County spokesperson Mary Rozak confirmed that Legionella bacteria were detected in water samples from the senior center. Dr. Sanders noted that about 75% of those who get sick from this disease are over the age of 50.
“Legionnaires’ disease is not very common, but when it occurs, it can be very severe and potentially lethal,” he said. Nationally, about 10% of people with community-acquired Legionnaires’ disease die from it, according to the New York State Department of Health.
Since the outbreak was identified last Friday, Albany County has been actively testing the water at the senior center. The Peregrine Shaker facility has responded by installing water filters and distributing bottled water to ensure that residents can safely drink, shower, and wash their hands.
Krystin Ganim, the executive director of Peregrine Shaker, assured the public that the community is taking all necessary precautions to ensure safety. “We have installed advanced water filters in as many locations as possible, including bathing and showering areas,” Ganim said.
“We are also rapidly installing these filters in each resident’s apartment and implementing a top-notch water treatment system for the entire community.”
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease can include respiratory issues, headaches, fever, stomachaches, and diarrhea. The condition is usually treatable with antibiotics.
Dr. Sanders emphasized the importance of continuous water testing to ensure that the bacteria is eliminated. He also advised caution regarding standing water that is not well-circulated, such as in old air conditioning units and plumbing systems.