PATERSON, New Jersey (WABC) — A second patient at a hospital in Passaic County, New Jersey who tested positive for the bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease has died, health officials announced Wednesday.
The patient was being treated at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson.
Two weeks ago, the hospital confirmed that another patient who died after being treated for “multiple medical conditions” in July had also tested positive for Legionella, the bacteria.
Both patients had significant underlying health conditions, according to the hospital.
“The patient faced significant underlying health challenges, as was the case of the earlier individual who tested positive while receiving treatment. Our thoughts remain with their families and loved ones during this difficult time,” the hospital said in a statement.
The first patient’s death prompted a state health investigation into the hospital’s water system.
On November 18, state testing results revealed there was Legionella in the water supply of one of the contained areas of the hospital. St. Joseph’s University Medical Center was subsequently notified on December 8 and began cleaning and treating its water system.
At least 228 former patients who were treated and discharged from that area of the hospital between November 27 and December 8 were notified about the potential risk of infection.
Officials say symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease are similar to other respiratory illnesses and can include cough, muscle aches, fever, shortness of breath and headache. Less common symptoms can include diarrhea, nausea, or confusion.
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