BAMC locates source of Legionella bacteria

Acute bilateral pneumonia (legionnairesÃ disease caused by Legionella pneumophila), seen on a frontal chest x-ray. (Photo by: BSIP/UIG via Getty Images) Acute bilateral pneumonia (legionnairesÃ disease caused by Legionella pneumophila), seen on a frontal chest x-ray. (Photo by: BSIP/UIG via Getty Images) Photo: BSIP/UIG Via Getty Images Photo: BSIP/UIG Via Getty Images Image 1 of / 30 Caption Close BAMC locates source of Legionella bacteria 1 / 30 Back to Gallery

Brooke Army Medical Center said Tuesday it had identified the likely source of Legionella bacteria — a water heater in a now-abandoned building that is next to the main hospital — and confirmed for the first time that three patients had developed Legionnaire’s disease since August.

All personnel were moved out of Building 15 on Feb. 6 to other areas within the facility, and the building remains vacant and secured, officials said.

BAMC conducted extensive testing after the bacteria was identified in two patients last August, but no source for the bacteria was found at that time. Hospital officials confirmed one new of a Legionella infection in February but said at the time that none of the cases had developed into Legionnaire’s disease.

The hospital now says all three patients had the disease.

“We have been conducting extensive testing in and around Building 15 to determine the source of the Legionella bacteria,” said Col. Traci Crawford, BAMC’s deputy commanding officer. “Ensuring the health and safety of our patients and staff are paramount.”

“We are fully cooperating with local and regional public health officials to ensure there is no further risk for exposure moving forward,” Crawford said.

Read more on this developing story at ExpressNews.com or in Wednesday’s Express-News.