A fourth person has tested positive for legionnaires' disease in Sydney's CBD, prompting an urgent health alert from NSW Health. The South Eastern Sydney Local Health District has urged residents to monitor for symptoms after the outbreak linked to the city's central business district.
The four individuals, who are not known to each other, developed the disease after spending time in Clarence Street near Wynyard between December 9 and December 18. All four have been admitted to hospital for specialist care.
Legionnaires' disease is a type of bacterial pneumonia caused by inhaling contaminated water particles from sources like cooling towers. It is not spread from person to person. Health authorities are investigating the source and assessing cooling water systems in the affected area.
Dr Vicky Sheppeard, director of the Public Health Unit, warned that symptoms can develop up to 10 days after exposure and include fever, chills, cough, and shortness of breath. Those at highest risk include the elderly, people with underlying health conditions, and smokers.
Building managers in the CBD have been urged to ensure proper maintenance of cooling towers. Anyone who has been in the area and feels unwell is advised to seek medical attention.
