Legionnaires’ Disease Found at EPA Buildings: What You Need to Know (As an Epidemiologist)

These bacteria are everywhere freshwater is found. Some people are at higher risk than others for the disease, but there are things you can do to lower your risk and prevent infection.

View of rooftop cooling towers and HVAC systems on top of a building in a cityscape, with high-rise buildings and trees visible in the background. (Photo by Nopparuj Lamaikul on Unsplash)

I recently came across a report about Legionnaires’ disease at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) buildings in Chicago, and it reminded me of my early days of being interested in epidemiology. It also reminded me of my first week as an epidemiologist at the Maryland Department of Health in the mid-2000s.

Legionnaires’ disease might not be a household name. As a disease, it is rare. But it’s one we should all be familiar with — especially as it rears its head in unexpected places, like office buildings, retirement homes, and assisted living (nursing) homes.

Back in 1976…

During the 100th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, many organizations and their members descended on Philadelphia for the celebrations. One of those organizations was the American Legion. The group consists of veterans. In 1976, many of its members stayed at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in downtown.