"Fatal Outbreak: Deadly Disease Linked to Tap Water in California Claims One Life and Puts Five on Ventilators"
A resident in Napa County, California, died and five others were put on ventilators after contracting Legionnaires' disease from contaminated tap water. The outbreak, which occurred in July 2022, was traced back to poorly-maintained water system cooling towers that allowed bacteria to contaminate the water supply. A total of 14 confirmed cases and three suspected cases were reported, with 10 patients requiring intensive care and five needing ventilators. Investigations revealed a lack of proper maintenance at the facilities, including low levels of chlorine in the cooling towers. Legionnaires' disease can be life-threatening and is typically spread through air conditioning units, showers, and tap water.