Over the past several months, Central Florida has had outbreaks of Legionnaires' cases linked to gyms on Kirkman Road near MetroWest in Orange County, Orange Blossom Trail in Hunter's Creek. Additionally, two cases were connected to the Summit Greens 55+ adult community in Clermont.
What is Legionnaires' disease?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Legionnaires disease is caused by the legionella bacteria.
The disease is also referred to as the Pontiac fever, after the first outbreak occurred at an American Legion convention in Philadelphia in 1976.
How does it grow?
The bacteria can grow and multiply in various parts of a building's water system and grows best in warm water.
What are common symptoms?
The bacteria can cause pneumonia-like symptoms, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, fever, and headaches. Symptoms can show up as many as 10 days after exposure.
In 2015, the CDC reported there were 6,000 cases of the disease reported in the United States.
What age group is poses the greatest risk?
The CDC said people with the highest risk are 50 years or older, or people who have a weak immune system.