Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in 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 26 July. 

Legionnaires’ disease is spread by breathing in fine droplets of water that contain Legionella bacteria. It is not commonly spread from person-to-person or by drinking contaminated water. 

There have been 22 confirmed and 6 suspected cases notified since Friday afternoon, mostly 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. 

People who develop symptoms should seek urgent medical care. 

People who are at greater risk of infection include those who: 

• are aged over 40 years 

• are smokers 

• have a chronic lung disease 

• have a weakened immune system 

• have other underlying medical conditions such as chronic heart, liver or kidney disease, and diabetes. 

Healthcare professionals should have a high index of suspicion for Legionnaires’ disease in patients with compatible symptoms, particularly community acquired pneumonia with risk factors. 

If Legionnaires’ disease is suspected, request urgent urinary antigen testing through your normal pathology provider. 

Legionnaires’ disease is an urgent notifiable condition that requires notification to the Department of Health upon initial diagnosis or clinical suspicion as soon as practicable by calling 1300 651 160 (24/7). 

More information

Legionnaires’ – Better Health Channel