Update: Legionnaires' CBD outbreak

NSW Health is continuing to investigate an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in the Sydney CBD area.

There are now 12 confirmed cases in people who have spent time in the Sydney CBD and adjacent suburbs between 13 March and 5 April 2025.

Sadly, one of the people who contracted the disease passed away in hospital last week. NSW Health expresses its sincere condolences to their loved ones.

Legionella bacteria have been found in one cooling tower and further testing is underway to determine if it is the source of the outbreak. The tower is being decontaminated.

All current confirmed cases were exposed in late March or early April and people who were in the Sydney CBD and surrounds during this time are asked to be aware for symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease, including fever, chills, a cough and shortness of breath. 

Symptoms can develop up to 10 days after exposure and anyone who is experiencing symptoms should see their general practitioner.  

South Eastern Sydney Local Heath District Public Health Unit Director Dr Vicky Sheppeard said of the 12 people infected, 11 have been hospitalised. One person received care out of hospital.

“Legionnaires’ disease is caused by infection with Legionella bacteria. Outbreaks sometimes occur when bacteria from environmental sources such as cooling towers atop large buildings become contaminated.  It is not spread from person to person,” Dr Sheppeard said.

“NSW Health continues to work closely with the City of Sydney to identify, inspect and sample any cooling towers in the CBD potentially implicated in the outbreak. To date, over 165 cooling towers have been inspected and tested.

“Most building owners have responded quickly to ensure that their cooling towers are operated and maintained in compliance with the NSW Public Health Regulation 2022.”

If unwell, please seek medical advice from your GP or emergency department. For non-life-threatening health concerns call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 (this service is free and available 24 hours a day).

For information on management of water-cooling systems contact your local public health unit on 1300 066 055 or https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/legionellacontrol/Pages/default.aspx

For more information on Legionnaires’ disease visit: Legionnaires’ disease - frequently asked questions

To access the latest updates on this outbreak visit: Public Health Hot Topics and Alerts | South Eastern Sydney Local Health District

Published 17 April 2025

Stock imagery used.