Toronto Public Health probing Legionnaires’ disease outbreak near Bathurst and Dupont; 6 cases confirmed

Toronto Public Health is investigating a Legionnaires' disease outbreak in the vicinity of Bathurst and Dupont Streets. Six confirmed cases have been identified among residents, workers, or recent visitors to the area, with symptoms developing between July 2 and July 26, according to the City. Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which can thrive in man-made water systems.

Public Health officials emphasize that the disease does not spread between people and that the overall risk to the public remains low. Onsite inspections and environmental sampling are underway to identify potential sources of the bacteria, although no source has been confirmed yet. Precautionary measures have already been taken.

Local hospitals and health partners have been informed to help identify any additional cases. The investigation is also looking into whether the outbreak is connected to a recent one at Castleview Wychwood Towers, a nearby long-term care home where five cases were confirmed earlier in July. Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and muscle aches, and those at higher risk include older adults, smokers, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

The disease can be treated with antibiotics and most cases result in full recovery. For more information, visit the City of Toronto's Legionnaires' disease webpage.