Daijiworld Media Network- Sydney

Sydney, Apr 10: Health authorities in New South Wales (NSW) have issued a public alert following a spike in Legionnaires' disease cases in Sydney, prompting concerns over possible contaminated air conditioning systems.

The NSW Health Department confirmed that several individuals have been diagnosed with the potentially serious bacterial infection caused by Legionella pneumophila, which is commonly found in contaminated water or cooling towers of large air conditioning systems.

Authorities are now working to trace the source of the outbreak and have urged individuals who were in the Sydney central business district in recent days to be alert for symptoms. These include fever, chills, shortness of breath, cough, and muscle aches, typically developing 2–10 days after exposure.

“While most people exposed do not develop Legionnaires' disease, the infection can be serious, especially in older adults, smokers, or people with weakened immune systems,” an official statement read.

Health experts have begun testing cooling towers in the city as a precautionary measure, and building owners have been reminded of their responsibility to regularly maintain and clean air conditioning systems to prevent such outbreaks.

NSW Health is also collaborating with local councils and public health units to monitor the situation and ensure public safety.

Residents experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to seek medical attention promptly, especially if they have recently visited high-risk areas.

This isn’t the first time Sydney has faced a Legionnaires' alert, but health officials stress that early detection and swift action are key to preventing wider community transmission.