An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Home : News : News
JBSA News
NEWS | Feb. 28, 2018

BAMC discovers likely source of Legionella bacteria in adjacent building

By Brooke Army Medical Center Public Affairs Brooke Army Medical Center Public Affairs

Brooke Army Medical Center has identified the likely source of the Legionella bacteria in building 15, which is located adjacent to the main facility.

 

After testing numerous sources, a hot water heater in the building was determined to be the source for the Legionella. 

 

BAMC conducted extensive testing after two cases of Legionnaires’ disease were confirmed in August, but no source for the bacteria was found at that time.

 

“We have been conducting extensive testing in and around building 15 to determine the source of the Legionella bacteria,” said Col. Traci Crawford, BAMC’s deputy commanding officer. “Ensuring the health and safety of our patients and staff are paramount.”

 

All personnel were moved out of that building on Feb. 6, to other areas within the facility, and the building remains vacant and secured.

 

“We are fully cooperating with local and regional public health officials to ensure there is no further risk for exposure moving forward,” Crawford said.

 

“BAMC leadership is fully committed to providing a safe environment for all patients and staff,” she added.

 

People who have concerns about their health should contact their medical provider. For more information on Legionella, visit https://www.cdc.gov/legionella/index.html.

 

Note: This is an update to an earlier BAMC press release dated Feb. 7.

https://www.bamc.amedd.army.mil/articles/2018/bamc-staff-member-confirmed-with-legionella-bacteria.asp