Dept. of Health confirms Legionella bacteria detected in Tracey Towers

The city's Department of Health has confirmed that Legionella bacteria was detected at Tracey Towers, a pair of residential buildings in Bedford Park.

News 12 Staff

Oct 5, 2019, 10:21 PM

Updated 1,674 days ago

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The city's Department of Health has confirmed that Legionella bacteria was detected at Tracey Towers, a pair of residential buildings in Bedford Park.
It comes after four cases of Legionnaires' disease were confirmed in Building 20 in September.
The complex includes two towers, Nos. 20 and 40. Officials say only No. 20 was contaminated.
As News 12 has reported, two cases of Legionnaires' disease were confirmed last month. Just over a week later, another two cases of the pneumonia-like illness were confirmed.
In a statement, the Health Department said in part, "The Health Department and building management are promptly alerting residents of the situation, and providing guidance on how to prevent exposure, especially for those at higher risk for disease."
Residents have been advised that they can still use and drink the water, but should take precautions such as avoiding showers, even cold showers, because it can create vapor or mist. Baths are recommended, but only after the tub has been filled slowly. When washing dishes, residents are advised to fill the sink slowly to avoid mist.
Legionnaires' disease is treatable with antibiotics but can be fatal if not treated. People most susceptible are those over age 50, smokers, those with weak immune systems and chronic lung disease patients.
News 12 contacted the property management company for comment but has not yet heard back.
A tenants meeting is scheduled for Monday with the management company and the Department of Health.


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