Legionnaires' Disease Not Found at BAMC

The Army says there is no outbreak of the bacteria blamed for Legionnaire's Disease in one of the buildings adjacent to Brooke Army Medical Center where two workers tested positive for the bacteria earlier this month, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.

The Army says the building was vacated and the Centers for Disease Control conducted a thorough sweep to test for the bacteria in the building, as well as in buildings and other potential sources around the area, like HVAC systems and water tanks, and say the testing came up negative.

"The great news is there is no indication of Legionella bacteria," BAMC Commander Brig. Gen. Jeffery Johnson said.  "We have a team of experienced, dedicated specialists who have gone the extra mile and we are very proud of the work they have done."

Johnson said the testing is not done, as officials still want to determine the source of the Legionella bacteria.

Legionnaire's disease is caused by a bacteria which is normally found in water, which can become viral when it get into the water systems of industrial buildings.  The worst outbreaks have been in facilities like hotels and apartment complexes.

BAMC officials say they will make a major effort to inspect and clean all of the HVAC systems, flushing all of the lines, and draining water heaters.

The building where the two workers acquired the disease is now being reoccupied.


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