Legionnaires' Disease Traced to Ocean City Condo Building

Four cases of Legionnaires' disease have been traced to a beachfront property in Ocean City, Maryland, health officials say.

Two people contracted the disease -- which can be fatal -- after they stayed in the Golden Sands Condominium building, Worcester County Health Department officials found last fall. An additional two cases were identified last month, spokeswoman Kathy Derr said.

None of the four cases have been fatal. 

Legionnaires' disease is a form of pneumonia, with symptoms including shortness of breath, headaches, coughing and fever. The disease is spread through water containing legionella bacteria. It is treatable if patients seek medical attention quickly, Derr said.

The facility has taken steps to contain the outbreak, which include hiring a water consultant expert and continuing to have the water tested.

The Golden Sands Condominium, which bills itself as the "best on the beach," has 360 units, many of which are available for rental, according to the website for the building.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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