Chief Health Officer Alert: Outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in metropolitan Melbourne
The Department of Health is investigating an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease (Legionellosis) with a significant increase in cases notified across metropolitan Melbourne and surrounding areas since Friday afternoon.
So far, cases have mostly occurred in adults aged over 40 years. Most cases have required hospitalisation, with multiple admissions to intensive care for severe community acquired pneumonia.
Legionnaires’ disease can cause a chest infection with symptoms of fever, chills, cough, headache and muscle aches and pains. Other atypical symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and confusion.
All cases have visited or reside in metropolitan Melbourne. Those most at risk are adults aged over 40 years, especially people with other medical conditions or immune compromise, or who smoke.
People who develop symptoms should seek urgent medical care.
For more information including recommendations for health professionals click here: https://www.health.vic.gov.au/health-alerts/outbreak-of-legionnaires-disease-in-metropolitan-melbourne