Legionnaires’ disease is a bacterial infection spread by breathing mists or vapors from a contaminated water source (for example, fountains, whirlpool spas, showers). It cannot be spread from person to person. People at increased risk for contracting the disease are those who smoke, have chronic lung disease or have a weakened immune system. On the average, there are approximately 11 cases of Legionnaires’ disease reported in Anne Arundel County annually.

For more information about the disease, go to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.