Epidemic hazard

Michigan health officials are investigating a case of Legionnaires’ disease at Bronson Methodist Hospital in Kalamazoo, Mich., CBS affiliate WWMT reported Jan. 28.Kalamazoo-based Bronson Healthcare confirmed the infection in a patient recently hospitalized at the facility and said the risk of exposure to others is low. “While we believe the risk of exposure is low, we are working closely with state and local health departments to investigate and implement the appropriate mitigation,” the system said in a statement to WWMT. “We have also notified patients and staff as a precaution and in accordance with health department requirements.” Hospital leaders and health officials are still working to identify the source of the infection.Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia, is caused by Legionella bacteria. The bacteria can grow and spread in water systems, and individuals most frequently contract it by inhaling mist from contaminated water. Bronson Healthcare told the news outlet it maintains “a comprehensive water management program in accordance with national guidelines, and we routinely monitor our water supply to ensure it meets safety requirements.”