WAYNE COUNTY, Mich. – Wayne County health officials are investigating cases of Legionnaires’ disease in Dearborn.
The type of pneumonia, also called Legionella Pneumonia or Pontiac Fever, was detected among residents of Allegria Village in Dearborn.
According to the Wayne County Health, Human and Veterans Services, there were two cases from June and July 2025. The two people have died, but their causes of death are still under investigation.
“WCHHVS is working in close collaboration with Allegria Village and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to investigate and respond to the situation,” the department said in a statement Tuesday. “The investigation is in its early stages and ongoing, with the goal to ensure a safe and healthy living environment for residents and staff.”
The department also said it is investigating an additional case from August 2024.
What to know about Legionnaires’ disease
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which is found naturally in freshwater environments such as lakes and streams.
Legionella bacteria can become a health concern when it enters and grows inside water system.
According to health officials, people can get this type of pneumonia by breathing in aerosolized water containing Legionella. This includes plumbing systems and devices such as cooling towers, hot tubs, cooling misters and decorative fountains. It is not spread by drinking or swimming in water, except if it is breathed in.
Legionnaire’s disease is not spread person to person. Health officials said most healthy individuals do not become infected after exposure to Legionella. People at most risk are adults over 50, smokers and those with a weakened immune system or chronic lung conditions.
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