NEW YORK — The New York Police Department has found traces of the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease at a police station in East Harlem after an officer contracted the potentially life-threatening form of pneumonia.
Legionella pneumophila is the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease. The bacteria is usually found in large buildings as the water systems allow the bacteria to spread more easily.
Inhaling just a small amount of water containing the bacteria could cause the disease. Its symptoms include headache, fever, chest pain, nausea and diarrhea. The disease can be treated by antibiotics, but about 10% of patients die, mainly due to complications.
According to the Washington Post, authorities are inspecting the water systems and officers are told not to take showers at the police station.
Two hotel guests who stayed at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas separately in March and April also contracted Legionnaires’ disease.
