The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is investigating 21 cases of Legionnaires' disease, including one death, in Marshalltown, with health officials urging water system management and prompt medical care for at-risk populations. The disease, caused by Legionella bacteria, is not contagious but can be severe for older adults, smokers, and those with chronic lung conditions, and is treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed early.
An outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Marshalltown, Iowa, has resulted in 18 confirmed cases and one death among older adults with underlying health conditions, prompting an investigation by health authorities.
Marshalltown police have arrested 20-year-old Amarrion Isom and charged him with first-degree murder in the death of 27-year-old Isaiah Forest, who was found dead from a gunshot wound. Isom is also a suspect in a robbery investigation. Police say Isom and Forest were acquaintances, and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
