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Legionella identified at multiple locations on Wayne State University campus

Posted at 9:21 PM, Jun 06, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-07 17:17:50-04

Multiple locations on Wayne State University campus have tested positive for legionella, the WSU Chief of Staff confirmed Wednesday. 

The confirmation comes after the disease was confirmed in a faculty member in a May 29 alertfrom the university. 

According to the release, preliminary results have identified a positive test for legionella, a bacteria that can cause pneumonia, in cooling towers on three campus buildings. The disinfection process began on Wednesday. 

Legionella was also identified in a bathroom in the Faculty Administration Building, in a first floor men's bathroom in Scott Hall, and in a men's bathroom in the Cohn Building. Officials say these bathrooms will be closed until they can be further evaluated. 

The university says it will continue "comprehensive testing of campus, including potable water, to ensure all water sources are safe."

The university has also alerted the City of Detroit Health Department. 

Common symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include cough, fever, chills and muscle aches. 

In general, legionella bacteria do not spread from one person to another but is spread through inhalation of water droplets that contains the bacterium.