Legionnaires’ Disease Cases Hold at 34 in Marshall County, Iowa; One Death Reported
MARSHALLTOWN, IOWA – Health officials confirm that the number of Legionnaires’ disease cases in Marshall County has remained at 34, following a rise earlier in the week. The outbreak, first confirmed in August, has also been linked to one death.
Outbreak Details
The Iowa Department of Public Health announced that the outbreak grew from 30 cases on Monday to 34 on Tuesday, but the count has since stabilized as of Wednesday. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
The only confirmed fatality is Rev. Bernard “Bernie” Grady, a retired Catholic priest who died on September 9.
Source Still Unknown
Investigators have not yet identified the source of the Legionella bacteria behind the outbreak. Residents are being urged to maintain clean water systems in both homes and businesses as a precaution.
Officials with Marshalltown Water Works stressed that the town’s treated drinking water is not the source of contamination.
Understanding Legionnaires’ Disease
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water and spread through contaminated mist such as from cooling towers, showers, or hot tubs.
The illness is not spread person-to-person, but can be deadly if untreated. Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Headaches
- Chest pain
- Fever and fatigue
Health officials urge anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.
Broader Context
This outbreak comes as other parts of the country have also battled Legionnaires’ clusters. Earlier this summer, New York reported 114 cases and seven deaths tied to a separate outbreak.
Marshall County officials continue to work with state agencies to investigate and contain the situation.
With the outbreak still under review, residents are encouraged to stay alert to symptoms and follow health guidance. For updates on public health and community safety, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.