Legionnaires outbreak in South Yorkshire as investigation launched
Legionnaires outbreak in Rotherham - latest
Specialists are investigating an outbreak of a disease in South Yorkshire which can potentially require hospital treatment.
As reported previously in our sister title the Rotherham Advertiser, cases of Legionnaires disease have been found in the Kimberworth Park area of the town.
It is as yet unclear how many cases there have been but specialists from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are leading research into the outbreak.
The body is working closely with Rotherham Borough Council and local partners to find out if and how the small number of cases are linked and to investigate any common sources.
Legionnaires' disease causes a severe pneumonia and is caught by breathing in tiny droplets of water containing legionella bacteria, usually from sources such as air conditioning systems, showers and taps which are not properly designed, installed, and/or maintained.
The bacteria only multiply to dangerous levels in standing water where nutrients are present, and temperatures are between 20°C and 45°C.
Below 20°C, the bacteria remain dormant, and they cannot survive at temperatures above 60°C.
To become infected with the disease, Legionella bacteria have to be inhaled in aerosolised form as tiny water droplets from a contaminated source.
The wider risk to public health is low as the disease is not usually passed from person to person.
The UKHSA said that as investigations are ongoing and there is currently no evidence pointing to a common source, no specific buildings have been closed.
Dr Andy Irvine, consultant in health protection at UKHSA Yorkshire and Humber, said: “The outbreak was first identified when a higher than usual number of Legionnaires’ disease cases were reported in the last month.
“Some of these cases may be isolated incidents with no common source, however we are working to identify any links between cases and potential common sources for public health action.
“For a substantial proportion of Legionnaires' disease cases, the source is not always found.
"Signs and symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include a flu-like illness with muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever. Anyone with these symptoms should call NHS 111 or their GP for medical advice.
"Legionnaires' disease is routinely treated with antibiotics and may require hospital treatment.
“It is not usually passed from person to person."
The majority of cases of Legionnaires disease are reported as single isolated cases, but outbreaks can occur. In 2024, 472 cases of legionella were reported.
All ages can be affected, but it mainly affects people over 50 years of age, and generally men more than women.
The incubation period can range from two to 19 days, with an average of six to seven days after exposure.
For more information about Legionnaires’ disease, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/legionnaires-disease/