CBD Cooling Towers Targeted in Legionnaires’ Outbreak Probe

SYDNEY :  New South Wales health investigators are focusing their attention on commercial cooling systems following a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in Sydney’s Wynyard district.

Legionnaires’ disease typically develops when Legionella bacteria multiply in water sources, such as the cooling towers found on the roofs of large commercial buildings. The infection spreads when contaminated water particles are dispersed into the air and subsequently inhaled by passersby.

“People are exposed if contaminated water particles from a cooling system are in the air and then breathed in,” explained Dr. Vicky Sheppeard.

As the investigation continues, building managers throughout the Sydney CBD—particularly those with properties near Clarence Street—are being urged to conduct immediate inspections and maintenance on their cooling towers. Ensuring these systems are properly treated and disinfected is critical to preventing further spread of the bacteria.

The incubation period for the disease is typically between two and 10 days. Because the exposure period dates back to December 9, health officials are concerned that more cases may emerge as the “lag time” for symptom development reaches its peak for those exposed in mid-December.

Legionnaires’ disease cannot be spread from person to person. However, because it often manifests as a severe chest infection, early diagnosis is vital for successful recovery. NSW Health continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as environmental testing of CBD water systems progresses.