RALEIGH, N.C. – There’s growing concern about Legionnaires’ disease in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has noted a rise in cases, reporting 310 in 2025, up from 201 in 2024.
Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella. This bacteria thrives in warm, damp places, like hot tubs, fountains, and poorly maintained cooling systems. The danger lies in inhaling mist or vapor contaminated with Legionella, not from person-to-person contact.
In September 2019, an outbreak at the Western North Carolina Fair drew attention when four people died, and 141 fell ill after visiting a hot tub display. This highlights how crucial it is to manage water systems properly.
While most healthy individuals won’t get sick after exposure, some groups are at higher risk. These include:
- Those aged 50 and older
- Current or former smokers
- People with chronic health issues like lung disease or diabetes
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
To prevent infections, it’s vital to keep water systems clean. Here are some steps you can take at home:
- Flush taps or showerheads after three days of non-use.
- Keep hot tubs well-maintained and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Regularly clean parts of medical devices that use water.
- Drain garden hoses to prevent stagnant water.
- Only use manufacturer-recommended fluids in windshield wipers to deter bacteria growth.
Commercial buildings and healthcare facilities need to be extra cautious. For example, cooling towers, which can harbor Legionella, require careful management. Statistics from the CDC suggest that proper maintenance can significantly reduce outbreak risks. Facilities should aim to keep cold water below 77°F and hot water above 140°F.
Experts emphasize the importance of proactive measures in both residential and shared settings. “Maintaining optimal water quality is not just a regulatory issue; it’s a life-or-death matter for vulnerable populations,” states Dr. Emily Johnson, a public health expert.
As awareness grows, so do social media discussions around water safety. Many users share tips and personal stories, highlighting the importance of community education about this preventable disease. Overall, understanding and mitigating the risks associated with Legionella is essential for public health safety.
For more resources, you can visit the [CDC](https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/prevention/preventing-waterborne-germs-at-home.html) for detailed guidelines on preventing waterborne illnesses.
