A deadly outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease has struck a major city’s central business district (CBD), with the death toll now rising to two, and three more people hospitalised.
The outbreak has left health authorities scrambling to contain its spread. It has alerted the bustling urban centre and raised important questions about public health, building safety, and protecting ourselves.
New South Wales (NSW) Health has confirmed that a dozen people who spent time in and around Sydney’s CBD between March and April have contracted Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.
Tragically, a second person has now died after being hospitalised, and three more—residents of Potts Point aged in their 40s to 70s—are currently receiving treatment.
These individuals are unknown to each other, highlighting the random and insidious nature of the outbreak.
The affected area includes some of Sydney’s busiest spots, such as Pitt Street Mall and Circular Quay.
One patient was reportedly infected by driving through Circular Quay, underscoring how easily the bacteria can spread in public spaces.
Legionnaires’ disease is pneumonia caused by inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria.
These bacteria thrive in warm water environments, such as cooling towers atop large buildings, air conditioning units, spas, hot water tanks, and even decorative fountains.
Outbreaks often occur when these systems are not properly maintained, allowing the bacteria to multiply and become airborne.
The disease is not spread from person to person but through the environment.
Dr Vicky Sheppeard, director of the public health unit at South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, said, ‘Outbreaks sometimes occur when bacteria from environmental sources such as cooling towers atop large buildings become contaminated.’
Legionnaires’ disease can be tricky to spot, as its symptoms often resemble those of the flu or other respiratory illnesses. They typically appear two to ten days after exposure and include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhoea
While the disease is treatable with antibiotics, it can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
This is especially true for people with weakened immune systems, chronic lung conditions, or other underlying health issues.
While anyone can contract Legionnaires’ disease, certain groups are more vulnerable, including:
- People over 50
- Smokers
- Those with chronic lung conditions (like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma)
- Individuals with weakened immune systems (including cancer patients, those on immunosuppressive medications, and people with diabetes)
Since many of our readers fall into these categories, it’s crucial to be vigilant and seek medical attention if you develop symptoms, especially if you’ve recently been in the Sydney CBD.
How are authorities responding?
NSW Health has launched a major investigation, inspecting more than 165 cooling towers across Sydney.
Legionella bacteria have been found in at least one tower, which is now thoroughly cleaned. Further testing is underway to determine if this tower was the outbreak’s source.
To prevent further spread, local businesses have been urged to disinfect their water cooling systems, spas, hot water tanks, and air conditioning units.
This is a timely reminder for all building owners and managers to stay on top of maintenance, which is easy to overlook until a crisis hits.
Sydney isn’t alone in facing this threat. Just last August, Melbourne experienced a similar outbreak traced to a cooling tower, resulting in over 100 cases and two deaths.
These incidents highlight the importance of regular inspection and maintenance of water systems in all major cities.
If you were in Sydney’s CBD during March or April and are experiencing any of the above symptoms, don’t wait—see your doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can be lifesaving.
For everyone else, especially those in higher-risk groups, it’s a good time to be aware of the risks associated with poorly maintained water systems.
If you live in an apartment building or frequent places with large air conditioning systems, don’t hesitate to ask about their maintenance schedules.
Have you or someone you know ever been affected by Legionnaires’ disease? What steps do you think should be taken to prevent future outbreaks? We’d love to read your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments below.
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