Public Health continues to investigate cases of Legionella at Glen Haven Manor and in the New Glasgow area. There are currently five positive cases and 16 possible (unconfirmed) cases awaiting lab results. Of those 21 cases, two positive cases and three possible cases are in the community, outside of Glen Haven Manor.
Legionella is common in Nova Scotia, however it rarely causes illness. Those at higher risk for illness from Legionella include people who are over 40, people who smoke or have chronic health conditions. For others, the risk is very low.
It is important to note that Legionella cannot be spread from person to person. The source of most Legionella infections is breathing the mist from a contaminated water source, such as hot water systems or air conditioning cooling towers.
Public Health is working closely with our partners at the Department of Environment and Climate Change to undertake environmental testing. A definitive source has not yet been identified, and it can take time to determine the source.
Due to a heightened risk of Legionella in the area, based on proximity to cases in the community, residents of New Glasgow, Trenton and Stellarton are asked to watch for the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Dry cough
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure. Potential exposures may have started as early as July 1.
If you live in one of these communities and have these symptoms, you should go to a primary care provider for testing and treatment. If you have severe illness, please seek emergency care. Please be advised, only those with symptoms will be tested.
Primary Health Care is offering an assessment and specimen collection clinic for those with symptoms:
Location: East Side Health Centre, 688A East River Rd, New Glasgow
Dates: Saturday, July 29, 8 a.m. to 12 noon and Sunday, July 30, 12 noon to 4 p.m.
This is a walk-in clinic and appointments are not needed.
Public Health does not recommend you change any behaviour or activity at this time. Please go about your day as usual. For more information about Legionella and precautions you can take, please visit https://www.nshealth.ca/news/qa-legionella-and-legionellosis-legionnaires-disease.
We understand this may be concerning to you and assure you that Public Health is working with partners to identify and correct potential sources.
Source: Release