PONTIAC, Mich. – Oakland County is taking proactive measures after routine water testing detected Legionella bacteria at the North Oakland Health Center (NOHC) and the Resource and Crisis Center (RCC).
This follows earlier findings of Legionella in the Oakland County Courthouse and the Sheriff’s Office administration building.
Oakland County officials say there are no reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease linked to these facilities, and risk to staff and visitors remains low.
Water samples collected on Jan. 19 showed two positive results at each facility.
In response, the county’s Facilities Management Department has begun installing filters on all water fixtures and will carry out additional steps like flushing the water systems.
Tests confirmed that the incoming water supply to both buildings is free of Legionella.
Legionella bacteria are commonly found in natural and man-made water environments, but infections are rare.
Last year, Oakland County reported 41 cases of Legionnaires’ disease.
The bacteria do not spread from person to person, officials said.
Follow-up testing will take place after remediation efforts.
Oakland County is maintaining routine preventive practices across all county buildings, including regular flushing and water temperature monitoring.
Water sampling at the Oakland County Jail began Jan. 27, with results expected in about two weeks.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include the following:
Cough
Fever
Headaches
Muscle aches
Shortness of breath
Confusion
Diarrhea
Nausea
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