The Chesterfield Health District is investigating an increase in reported cases of flu-like Legionnaires’ disease in the northeastern portion of the county.
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia traced to the Legionella bacteria, which can be found naturally in lakes and streams, according to health officials. Since May 1, there have been 10 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ among older adults and individuals with other medical conditions.
“The risk to residents or visitors to Chesterfield County is very small,” Chesterfield Health District Director Dr. Alexander Samuel said in a statement released Thursday afternoon. “Out of an abundance of caution, the health district recommends that individuals who become ill with pneumonia-like or respiratory symptoms, such as fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches and headache promptly seek medical care.”