MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa — The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is investigating a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases, including one death, among individuals in Marshalltown.

The Iowa HHS says that since the beginning of their investigation, 21 individuals have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease and one older adult, with underlying health conditions, has died.

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella bacteria that typically spreads throughs the inhalation of aerosolized water droplets, such as mist from cooling towers, hot tubs, and decorative fountains. Health officials say the disease is not contagious and most healthy people who are exposed to the bacteria do not become sick.

“Iowans should know that Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics if diagnosed early. Adults aged 50 and older, those who smoke or individuals with chronic lung conditions should seek medical care promptly if they develop flu-like or respiratory symptoms,” said Dr. Robert Kruse, Medical Director at Iowa HHS.

Health officials say individuals with weakened immune systems, chronic respiratory conditions, smokers and those 50 years and older are most likely to experiences severe illness from Legionnaires’ disease.

Common sypstoms of Legionnaires’ disease include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Chest pain
• Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea

Health officials say the risk to those living in Marshalltown is low, however, individuals who live live in the area and who become ill with pneumonia-like illness should visit their primary care doctor to discuss care.

Iowa HHS asks businesses and property owners to review water management practices, especially those with cooling towers, hot tubs, or fountains. The following steps are recommended to help mitigate the spread of Legionella:

• Review, maintain and/or establish a water management program.
• Disinfection of cooling towers and water systems to prevent bacteria growth.
• Perform routine water system maintenance and maintain records and logs.
• Perform Legionella testing through accredited laboratories, particularly following any remediation efforts.