Legionella Bacteria Test Results in at Illinois Veterans’ Home

Tests results are in on the environmental testing done on the presence of the Legionella bacteria at the Illinois Veterans’ Home.

Adams County Health Department officials report that the bacteria was found in the cooling tower, hot water tanks, shower heads and sink and tub faucets throughout the campus.

Testing by the Centers for Disease Control continue, however health officials say the exact source of the bacteria that resulted in an outbreak of Legionnaires’ Disease at the home may never be known.

There have a total of 54 cases of the respiratory disease, with 12 deaths attributed to the outbreak.

Steps are being taken to sanitize the water system and cooling tower and reduce the risk of further illnesses at the home.