North Carolina Reports Increase in Legionnaires' Disease Cases

Cases of the severe pneumonia increased by more than 100 between 2024 and 2025, according to state health officials.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has reported a significant increase in cases of Legionnaires' disease.

Understanding the Disease

Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacterium. Most infections occur when people breathe in the bacteria from water or soil. The bacteria thrive in wet environments and can be found in systems such as:

• Air conditioners
• Hot tubs and whirlpools
• Complex plumbing systems

Recognizing the Symptoms

The illness typically progresses in stages.

Within the first 10 days, initial symptoms often include:

• Headache
• Muscle aches
• A high fever, potentially reaching 104°F (40°C) or higher

By the second or third day, more severe symptoms can develop:

• A cough, which may bring up mucus or blood
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Confusion or other mental changes

Prevention and Control

Outbreaks can be prevented by proper monitoring and cleaning of water systems. This applies to large-scale systems in buildings as well as in residential settings.

For homeowners, prevention involves regular maintenance of household water systems, including water heaters, showerheads, and faucets.