GRAND RAPIDS, Minnesota – The Department of Health recently announced an update on the Legionnaires’ outbreak in Grand Rapids, revealing that they have identified the source of the outbreak. According to the department, data suggests that the areas of the city’s water system are the likely source of the Legionnaires’ disease.
Since April 2023, there have been 14 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the area, with 11 individuals requiring hospitalization. Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities. Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling Legionella bacteria found in water.
The likely exposure to Legionnaires’ disease has been geographically clustered in homes and other buildings in specific areas of the city. The situation is being addressed in partnership with the local water utility, with plans for additional water sampling and analysis of the results to inform further actions and communication.
The Legionella bacteria are commonly found in natural and manmade aquatic environments and can thrive in pipes and devices that use water. The city’s public water supply does not currently chlorinate its water, as it draws water from groundwater sources, which are not required to add disinfectants.
The city’s public utilities general manager, Julie Kennedy, stated that the immediate focus is on developing a provisional plan to flush and disinfect areas of the water system to reduce the risk of Legionella. The possibility of installing a chlorination system is being explored, but it is a complex process that requires a methodical approach to avoid additional health, safety, or distribution system complications.
The Department of Health and a team of experts are working to conduct a thorough assessment of the water distribution system and determine the best long-term solution. Local updates and customer notices will be provided as the plan develops.