2002 Outbreak of Pontiac Fever Linked to a Restaurant Ornamental Water Feature, Tennesee

An outbreak of Pontiac Fever occurred among patrons of a restaurant with several ornamental water features. The water handling system was elaborate, with each large ornamental feature having a separate continuously recirculating water system. Chlorinated municipal water was circulated and disinfected with bromine before re-entry into the water feature. The features were drained, cleaned, and checked on a schedule. Legionella anisa was isolated from one of the pools. The pools drained directly into the sewer system, with no mechanism for back flow prevention. Some spots in pools may not have received adequate disinfection. No common food sources were identified among ill patrons. Sitting near the side of the restaurant where environmental cultures were positive for Legionella anisa was a risk factor for illness.

Overview

Outbreak began:April 2002
Affected country:US
States/territories:TN
Pathogen:Legionella anisa
Vehicle(s):Water Fountain
Location(s):Restaurant
Molecular test results:Not reported

Health impact

Total ill:117
Number hospitalized:1

Sources & documents

Outbreak documents