A public health alert has been issued after a recent spike in Legionnaires' disease cases in Sydney's CBD, leaving authorities on high alert.

As health officials investigate the source of the outbreak, new details are emerging about the symptoms and risks involved.

What began as a few isolated cases has now prompted widespread concern, with experts urging caution and vigilance.

NSW Health issued a public health alert after six people contracted Legionnaires' disease in Sydney's CBD over the past three weeks.

The cases, which involved individuals who did not know each other, have raised serious concerns as health authorities scramble to determine the source of the infections.

Legionnaires' disease, caused by the Legionella bacterium, can lead to serious chest infections, including pneumonia.

Six confirmed Legionnaires' disease cases prompt Sydney health alert. Image source: AP

Symptoms, which can take up to 10 days to develop, include fever, chills, a cough, and shortness of breath.

In some instances, exposure to contaminated water droplets from cooling systems has been linked to the spread of Legionnaires' disease.

While the exact source of this outbreak has yet to be determined, it is suspected that cooling towers in the area could be a contributing factor.

According to South-Eastern Sydney Local Health District Public Health Unit director Vicky Sheppeard: 'People are exposed if contaminated water particles from a cooling system are in the air and then breathed in.'

Sheppeard also added: 'Those most at risk include elderly people, people with underlying lung or other serious health conditions and smokers.'

Six individuals have been admitted to hospital following the diagnoses, with their conditions being closely monitored.

NSW Health has been working with the City of Sydney to review maintenance records of cooling towers across the CBD to identify which towers require urgent inspection and sampling.

While the investigation continues, Sheppeard emphasised that Legionnaires' disease is not transmitted from person to person.

Building owners have been urged to ensure their cooling towers comply with all safety regulations to prevent future outbreaks.

For those feeling unwell, the advice is to seek medical help promptly.

For non-life-threatening health concerns, the healthdirect service can be contacted on 1800 022 222, available 24 hours a day.

The investigation remains ongoing, with further updates expected as NSW Health works to contain the situation.

To better understand the risks and symptoms of Legionnaires' disease, check out this video.

It provides a detailed overview of the condition and what you need to know

Watch the video now for more insights.

Source: Youtube/ABC News​

Key Takeaways

• SW Health issued a public health alert after six cases of Legionnaires' disease in Sydney's CBD.
• he source of the outbreak is still under investigation, with cooling towers suspected as a potential cause.
• ymptoms include fever, chills, a cough, and shortness of breath, with those at risk being the elderly, those with health conditions, and smokers.
• Building owners are urged to ensure cooling towers comply with safety regulations, and anyone feeling unwell should seek medical help.

With cooling towers under scrutiny, how do you think Sydney will address the risks of Legionnaires' disease moving forward? Share your thoughts in the comments!

 

[novezar]

Legionnaires' disease is another with no boundaries for any unfortunate people who may come in contact of a contaminated place.

 

[Towing]

The company I worked for constantly had their airconditioning towers etc. tested, more often than most companies / private residences do.