Local Whirlpool Closes to Investigate Legionnaires Disease

There is a difference between the French Foreigen Legion and Legionnaires Disease. No really there is.

KWTX is reporting that the whirlpool at the Waco Family YMCA, 6800 Harvey Road, is close while the Waco-McLennan County Health District investigate two case of Legionnaires disease.

According to the Mayo Clinic Legionnaires Disease is a severe form of pneumonia — lung inflammation usually caused by infection. Legionnaires' disease is caused by a bacterium known as legionella. It's not passed via touching other people. Most people get it from inhaling the bacteria. (does that mean when someone sneezes near me without covering up I can make a citizen's arrest for attempted murder?)

Rodney Martin, who's the president and CEO of the YMCA of Central Texas, said in an email...

"Exposure to the Legionella bacteria may have occurred at the Waco Family YMCA. Hot tubs specifically are a potential source and in both instances there was exposure in the hot tub area. While the source of the bacteria has not yet been determined, the Waco Family YMCA is working closely with the health department to follow appropriate steps to protect the health and wellbeing of our members and guests."