Legionnaires' disease cases on the rise across NC, health officials warn
ABC11 Raleigh-Durham • • health
Key Points:
- North Carolina reported 310 cases of Legionnaires' disease in 2025, a significant increase from 201 cases in 2024, prompting health officials to urge preventive measures.
- Legionnaires' disease is a severe pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in wet environments and poorly maintained water systems such as hot tubs, fountains, and cooling towers.
- Infection occurs through inhaling contaminated mist or vapor, with higher risk for adults over 50, smokers, people with chronic conditions, and those with weakened immune systems.
- Prevention efforts focus on limiting Legionella growth by flushing unused water outlets, maintaining hot tubs and medical equipment, replacing filters, draining garden hoses, and using proper windshield wiper fluid.
- Commercial buildings and healthcare facilities are advised to maintain proper water temperatures, disinfectant levels, and perform routine maintenance on water systems to reduce infection risks.
