The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability and the Public Health Department continue to investigate a confirmed case of Legionnaires’ disease identified in the Cayman Islands.
Environmental testing of water sources that the patient may have been exposed to during the incubation period has been completed, and samples have been sent to a specialised laboratory for analysis. Results are expected within 10 days. Appropriate control measures are being implemented while the investigation remains ongoing. Additional environmental testing may be undertaken as necessary based on findings from the ongoing investigation.
At this time, no source has been identified and no additional cases have been detected.
Legionnaires’ disease is not spread from person to person, and exposure to Legionella bacteria does not necessarily result in illness. Most healthy individuals who come into contact with the bacteria do not become sick. Those at greater risk include older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, and people with certain underlying health conditions.
There is currently no indication of a broader public health risk. Public health officials will continue to take all appropriate steps to identify any potential source and protect public safety. Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
Minister for Health, Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, said, "I want to reassure the public that this investigation is being managed carefully and that appropriate steps are being taken to safeguard the community while we await the laboratory results."