Southwest Suburban Health Department Confirms Case of Legionnaires Disease

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – July 12, 2024 – WEST ALLIS, WIS – Through investigation of a positive case of Legionnaire’s disease, the Southwest Suburban Health Department (SWSHD) identified Legionella bacteria in a cooling tower located at 7400 W. Greenfield Avenue.

Legionella bacteria grow in warm water (e.g., cooling towers, hot tubs, plumbing systems, hot water heaters, decorative fountains, etc.) and can make people sick when they breathe in mist from a water source contaminated with the bacteria. This illness is known as Legionnaires’ disease. It cannot normally be spread from person to person and can be treated with antibiotics. Those who have a compromised immune system, who smoke, or who are 50 years or older are more likely to be affected by Legionnaires’ disease.

No additional cases have been identified at the facility. The SWSHD is working closely with this facility to identify the source of the legionella bacteria. The SWSHD has ordered the senior living facility to take certain actions to include, but not limited to, using bottled water for drinking, discontinuing the use of showers, faucets and ice machines until proper filters are installed, repairing the cooling tower and other water distribution sources, and maintaining contact with the SWSHD until corrective actions are completed.

“We have proactively been working with the facility to ensure the safety of the West Allis community as we continue to investigate this case,” notes Robert Leischow, health commissioner. “We will continue working with the living facility to address this situation and protect the health of those living at or near this facility.”

While there is no widespread risk to the community, West Allis residents, particularly those living within a one-mile radius of the above referenced address, are encouraged to self-monitor for symptoms such as muscle aches, headache, tiredness, loss of appetite, coughing and fever. Individuals experiencing such symptoms should contact their healthcare provider.

For more information and facts about Legionella bacteria and Legionnaires’ disease, please visit www.westalliswi.gov/healthalert. Questions can be directed to Ashley Palen, director of community health services, at apalen@westalliswi.gov.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.