Severe Lung Disease on the Rise in One Iowa County

Legionnaires' disease is spreading across an Iowa county, and as of this week, there are now at least 34 confirmed cases of it since the middle of August.

Per the Mayo Clinic's website, Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia. It's a caused by a bacterium known as legionella:

Most people who catch Legionnaires' disease breathe in the bacteria from water or soil. Older adults, people with weakened immune systems and people who smoke have a higher risk of getting Legionnaires' disease - per the Mayo Clinic's website

READ MORE: Bacteria Known to Cause Brain Disease Found in Iowa

Where is Legionnaires' Spreading in Iowa?:

Per KCCI, Marshall County has seen a significant uptick in cases of Legionnaires' disease. The Iowa Department of Public Health confirmed the cluster of cases last week, and this week, the number of cases increased from 30 to 34.

At this time, retired Catholic priest Rev. Bernard "Bernie" Grady is the only reported fatality of this outbreak. It's a reminder that this disease has the potential to be fatal, particularly in the elderly.

What is the Cause of Legionnaires' in Marshall County?:

Per KCCI, health officials have not pinpointed the cause of the outbreak, and it remains under investigation. Marshalltown Water Works officials told KCCI that the town's treated drinking water is not the source of the Legionella bacteria. Residents are no less advised to maintain clear water systems in their homes and businesses, and advise anyone with Legionnaires' symptoms to seek medical attention.

What are the Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease?:

According to the Mayo Clinic, Legionnaires' disease typically starts two to 10 days after contact with legionella bacteria. Here are the symptoms:

• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fever that may be 104 Fahrenheit (40 Celsius) or higher

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By the second or third day, symptoms can expand to:

• Cough, which might bring up mucus and sometimes blood
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
• Confusion or other mental changes

This is also a reminder that Legionnaires' disease can be fatal. An outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in New York this summer led to seven deaths and 114 confirmed cases. Read more about the ongoing outbreak in Marshall County, IA on KCCI's website.