North Carolina Health Department Warns of Legionnaires' Disease Spike
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has issued a warning to residents about a significant increase in cases of Legionnaires' disease. This severe form of pneumonia is caused by the Legionella bacterium, which is typically inhaled from water or soil. The bacterium thrives in wet environments, such as air conditioners, hot tubs, and whirlpools. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of Legionnaires' disease can appear within the first 10 days of exposure and include headache, muscle aches, and high fever. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include a cough that produces mucus or blood, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and confusion. The NCDHHS reported that cases of Legionnaires' disease increased by more than 100 between 2024 and 2025.