UPDATE: An urgent health alert has just been issued as three individuals have been hospitalized with Legionnaires’ disease in the Sydney CBD. These patients, who do not know each other, spent time near Clarence St between December 9 and December 18, 2023.
NSW Health is warning anyone who has visited this area during that time to be vigilant and monitor for symptoms of this potentially deadly infection. Legionnaires’ disease, a severe lung infection caused by the legionella bacteria, can lead to symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, and shortness of breath. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal.
Local health authorities are investigating the source of the outbreak, which is often linked to environmental sources like contaminated cooling towers. Residents and visitors are urged to remain cautious, as contaminated water particles can become airborne and pose a risk when inhaled.
Mark Ferson, acting director of the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, confirmed that the source of the infection is currently unknown. “People are exposed if contaminated water particles from a cooling system are in the air and then breathed in,” he stated.
Authorities are collaborating with the City of Sydney to assess cooling towers in the vicinity to identify potential contamination. Symptoms can develop up to 10 days after exposure, making it crucial for anyone feeling unwell to seek medical advice promptly.
Those most vulnerable include elderly individuals, people with existing lung conditions, and smokers. The community is urged to take this warning seriously and stay informed as health officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story, as health authorities work to ensure public safety and prevent further cases.
