HPS 7J - Iridescent Waves, Ocean City

High Point South Condominium management was recently notified by the Worcester County Health Department and the Maryland Department of Health that two people who were recent guests at our facility subsequently developed legionellosis, a form of pneumonia.

The bacteria that cause legionellosis are found in many different water sources ‐ manmade and natural ‐ and it is not certain that those guests who tested positive for legionellosis acquired the illness at our facility. However, this facility always puts its guests first, so we want you to be aware of this possible association and provide you with some information about legionellosis so you can make an informed decision concerning your stay here.

Who gets legionellosis?
Anyone can get this disease; however, certain people are more likely to get legionellosis. Individuals most at‐risk are smokers, people over age 50, those with lung or kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, or weakened immune systems because of diseases or medications.

What is legionellosis?
Legionellosis is a form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.

What are the signs and symptoms of legionellosis?
Signs and symptoms include: fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, and body aches. Some people with legionellosis also report gastrointestinal symptoms, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

How do you get legionellosis?
The disease is spread by inhaling aerosols of water containing the Legionella bacteria. The disease is generally not passed from person to person.

Is there a cure for legionellosis?
Yes. Legionellosis can be treated by commonly available antibiotics. However, hospitalization is common. The case‐fatality rate ranges from 10‐25% but may be higher in situations where diagnosis and/or treatment is delayed.

How soon do signs of legionellosis appear?
Signs of the disease commonly appear from two to 14 days after coming in contact with these bacteria.

Why is the health department interested in cases of legionellosis?
Health care providers are asked to report to the health department all cases of legionellosis. The health department then makes inquiries to assure that exposure and risk to others are minimized.

Where can I get more information on legionellosis?
You can call the Worcester County Health Department at 410-632-1100 option 4.
You can also visit: http://www.cdc.gov/legionella/index.html
https://phpa.health.maryland.gov/Pages/legionellosis.aspx

What Persons Can Do to Reduce the Risk for Illness
Persons at high risk for legionellosis may wish to consider not staying at the facility.

Guests should reduce their risk of becoming ill by:
∙ Not showering. If bathing in a tub, fill the tub slowly and carefully to minimize aerosol production. While the tub is filling, exit the bathroom and keep the bathroom door closed.
∙ Using bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.

If you have questions about your risk for legionellosis or experience symptoms within 14 days following your stay, please contact 410-632-1100 option 4.Overnattingsstedet ligger i et boligområde, og gjester bes respektere beboerne.
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