Second death reported from Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Iowa

DES MOINES — A second death associated with a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Marshalltown has been reported by the state.

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services on Monday reported the second death was an elderly adult with multiple underlying health conditions. The unnamed individual died Sept. 18, according to the state.

Since late August, the state has confirmed 54 cases of Legionnaires’ disease. Previously, health officials have said all the cases are in residents who live in the north-central part of the city. It is unclear whether that still is true.

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water and typically spread when a person inhales aerosolized water droplets.

According to the state, all available evidence indicates cooling towers are the most likely source of the outbreak, although laboratory testing has not confirmed a direct source. Every business center in the affected area with a cooling tower has completed disinfection, the state said.

Local, state and federal public health agencies are investigating all possible sources of the outbreak while working with businesses on remediation and prevention, the state said.

“We are encouraged to see fewer new cases reported recently,” State Medical Director Dr. Robert Kruse said in a press release. “Our teams remain engaged with building owners on disinfection and it will take additional time to know if this decline reflects successful remediation.”

Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious and most healthy people who are exposed do not get sick, state health officials said.

Individuals who live, work or have spent time in north-central Marshalltown who have a cough, fever or other symptoms of pneumonia should see their health care provider and ask about Legionella, state health officials said.