A beverage processing plant in Hopkins, Minn., has been identified as the likely source of a Legionnaires' disease outbreak in that community.

Samples from a single cooling tower at Citrus Systems, Inc., contained Legionella bacteria, public health investigators said Oct. 12. The company's products aren't affected.

The bacteria exactly matched the strain taken from patients who contracted the respiratory infection, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.

Twenty-three people were sickened in the outbreak. One person died. All of them lived or worked in Hopkins, or visited the city during the 10 days before they became ill.

More details here.

Source: Star Tribune