A patient has died after testing positive for Legionella bacteria found in part of the water system at St. Joseph’s University Medical Center in Paterson.
The New Jersey Department of Health tested the hospital’s water on 18 November.
Results received on 8 December confirmed Legionella in one contained area.
Hospital officials said the patient had multiple serious medical conditions and succumbed to those illnesses.
St. Joseph’s Health has taken immediate remediation steps.
They are working closely with state and local health officials.
The hospital is notifying 228 patients who were treated and discharged from the affected area between 27 November and 8 December.
These patients are advised to seek medical attention if symptoms appear.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include cough, muscle aches, fever, shortness of breath and headache.
Less common signs are diarrhea, nausea or confusion.
Officials stressed the risk to the public remains low.
Legionnaires’ disease is not spread person-to-person.
Dr. Joseph Duffy, chief medical officer, said patient, visitor and staff safety is the top priority.
The hospital will continue all necessary measures to maintain a safe environment.
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