Water Supply Contamination at New Jersey Hospital
Legionella Infection Causes Severe Pneumonia, 2 Dead
Over 200 Patients and Others Potentially Exposed
An incident occurred at a hospital in New Jersey, United States, where a water management facility became contaminated, resulting in patients being infected with a deadly bacterium. As of the article's publication date, two deaths have been reported, and the number of patients potentially exposed to the infection is estimated to be around 200.
According to recent reports from local media outlets such as NJ.com, New Jersey health authorities announced that a patient who had been treated at St. Joseph's Hospital, under St. Joseph's Health in Paterson, tested positive for Legionella and died on December 24. Legionella is a bacterium that is primarily transmitted through contaminated water and can cause severe pneumonia.
Hospital States "Deceased Patient Had Pre-existing Conditions"
The hospital stated that, following an inspection by New Jersey health authorities, Legionella was detected in the hospital's water supply facilities. Hospital spokesperson Pamela Garrettson said in a statement, "The patient who died had significant pre-existing conditions even before testing positive for Legionella," and added, "We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones during this difficult time."
Previously, in July, another patient at this hospital who had multiple pre-existing conditions tested positive for Legionella and subsequently died.
New Jersey health authorities notified the hospital of the positive Legionella test results on December 8, and the hospital immediately began cleaning and disinfecting the water supply system.
The hospital is individually contacting 228 patients who received treatment in the affected area between November 27 and December 8 to inform them of the potential infection risk. Spokesperson Garrettson stated, "Currently, there are no additional cases of Legionella infection under investigation." She also reported that recent water quality tests have confirmed the hospital's water supply system is now safe for consumption.
The hospital announced plans to maintain a safe environment for patients, families, and visitors by continuing regular monitoring and inspections of the water supply system and cooperating with health authorities.
Garrettson explained, "We have taken proactive measures, including hiring an environmental water quality consultant and implementing enhanced safety protocols," and added, "We have also completed disinfection of the entire hospital, exceeding state government standards."
Legionella: 80% Fatality Rate Among Patients with Pre-existing Conditions or Severe Pneumonia
Meanwhile, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Legionnaires' disease is a severe pneumonia or lung infection caused by Legionella bacteria, with symptoms that may include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, muscle aches, and headaches.
Symptoms usually appear within 14 days after exposure, but in some cases, they may develop later. Most healthy individuals show no symptoms even if infected, but patients hospitalized for other illnesses are known to be at higher risk of infection.
In particular, people over the age of 50, smokers, and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing Legionnaires' disease. The general fatality rate is around 15%, but for patients with pre-existing conditions, severe illness, or advanced age, the fatality rate is reported to reach as high as 80%.
According to New Jersey health authorities, approximately 250 to 350 cases of Legionnaires' disease are reported annually across the state, with 224 cases recorded last year.
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