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Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak Prompts Building Closures in Oakland County

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 10:52 GMT by Patch

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Legionnaires' Disease Concerns Plague Several Oakland County Buildings: Investigations Underway After Multiple Cases Linked to Cooling Towers

Oakland County, Michigan is grappling with a concerning outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease following the confirmed presence of Legionella bacteria in cooling towers at several county-owned buildings. The discovery has prompted investigations, building closures, and heightened public health concerns, particularly as winter approaches and indoor spaces become more frequently used.

The initial alarm was raised after an increase in reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease within the county. While sporadic cases are not unusual, a cluster investigation initiated by the Oakland County Health Division (OCHD) revealed a statistically significant link between these infections and individuals who had recently been present at or near several county buildings. This connection led investigators to focus on potential waterborne sources within those facilities.

The Source: Cooling Towers Identified as Primary Suspects

The investigation quickly zeroed in on cooling towers – large industrial systems used for temperature regulation in many buildings, including government offices and courthouses. These towers operate by dispersing water into the air, creating a humid environment that is ideal for Legionella bacteria to thrive if not properly maintained. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cooling towers are often the culprit in Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks. (See CDC information here: [ https://www.cdc.gov/legionellosis/index.html ]).

Specifically, Legionella bacteria have been confirmed in cooling towers at the Oakland County Courthouse in Pontiac, the Human Services Building in Pontiac, and the Water Resources Commissioner's Office building, also in Pontiac. The presence of the bacteria doesn’t automatically mean everyone exposed will contract Legionnaires' disease; susceptibility varies based on individual health factors like age, immune status, and underlying lung conditions. However, it does represent a significant public health risk.

What is Legionnaires’ Disease? A Brief Overview

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. Symptoms typically include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headache. The illness can be life-threatening, particularly for individuals with weakened immune systems or pre-existing respiratory conditions. While most people exposed to Legionella don't get sick, those who do require antibiotic treatment. The disease is named after an outbreak that occurred at a 1976 convention of the American Legion in Philadelphia.

County Response and Mitigation Efforts

Following the discovery, Oakland County officials have taken several steps to address the situation. The most immediate action was the temporary closure of the affected buildings – the Courthouse, Human Services Building, and Water Resources Commissioner's Office – to allow for thorough disinfection and remediation efforts. Alternative locations are being utilized to continue essential county services during this period.

County officials have engaged specialists in water treatment and cooling tower maintenance to implement a comprehensive cleaning and disinfection plan. This includes shock chlorination of the cooling towers and an assessment of their operational procedures to prevent future contamination. The process is expected to take several weeks, with ongoing monitoring to ensure Legionella levels are reduced to safe limits before buildings reopen.

“We understand this situation causes concern for our residents,” stated Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter in a press release. “The safety and well-being of our employees and the public is our top priority. We are working diligently with experts to address this issue swiftly and effectively.” (See full statement here: [ https://www.oakgov.com/news/Pages/LegionnairesDiseaseUpdate.aspx ]).

Public Health Concerns & Ongoing Investigation

The OCHD is actively investigating past cases to identify potential links and notify individuals who may have been exposed. They are also working with healthcare providers to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of suspected cases. Residents experiencing symptoms consistent with Legionnaires’ disease, particularly if they have recently visited any Oakland County buildings, are urged to seek medical attention immediately and inform their doctor about the possible exposure.

The investigation isn't limited to just the identified buildings. Officials are reviewing water systems in other county facilities as a precautionary measure. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is also providing support and guidance during this response.

Preventative Measures & Future Considerations

This incident highlights the importance of rigorous cooling tower maintenance and water safety protocols, particularly within large buildings that serve the public. Regular testing for Legionella bacteria, proper disinfection procedures, and adherence to industry best practices are crucial in preventing future outbreaks. The county is reviewing its existing policies and considering implementing more stringent monitoring programs moving forward.

The situation underscores a broader concern: Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks can occur anywhere with water systems, and vigilance is required from building owners and public health officials alike. While the immediate focus remains on resolving the current outbreak in Oakland County, the incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by this preventable illness.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive summary based on the provided Patch link and associated resources. It’s important to note that investigations are ongoing, and information may be updated as more details become available.