Several people in Melbourne have been hospitalised, some in a severe condition, in a
significant” outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease.
While authorities have not found the source of the infection, they are investigating Melbourne’s northern and western suburbs.
There have been 22 confirmed and six suspected cases notified since Friday afternoon, mainly in adults aged over 40 years. Most cases have required hospitalisation, with multiple admissions to intensive care for severe community-acquired pneumonia.
Legionnaires’ disease can cause a chest infection with symptoms of fever, chills, cough, headache and muscle aches and pains. Other atypical symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and confusion.
The number of cases is expected to grow as Victoria’s Department of Health urges those with symptoms to seek urgent medical attention.
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