Three individuals have died following an outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease at Peregrine Senior Living Facility in Albany, New York. The outbreak, which has hospitalized 20 people, was confirmed by Albany County officials on Thursday.
The Legionella bacteria, which causes Legionnaire’s disease, was discovered at the facility last Friday, according to a statement from the Albany County Executive’s Office. Ten people have tested positive for the disease, and three of those have since passed away.
Legionnaire’s disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling mist or water droplets containing the Legionella bacteria, according to the CDC. The bacteria are not spread from person to person, which means there is no direct risk to the larger community.
In response to the outbreak, water samples at the Peregrine Senior Living Facility tested positive for Legionella, prompting the installation of water filters for resident safety. Additional testing is ongoing, according to county officials.
The New York State Department of Health has implemented water restrictions at the facility and posted signage to alert staff and visitors. “We are working closely with the facility and local health officials to protect the health and safety of the residents,” the department said in a statement.
The situation remains under investigation as health authorities continue to collect water samples and monitor the conditions at the facility.