The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is reporting a second death associated with the Legionella outbreak in Marshalltown. The individual, an elderly adult with multiple underlying health conditions, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 18. To date, there have been 71 cases of legionellosis, including two deaths. The first to pass was Fr. Bernie Grady of Marshalltown, and the name of the second deceased individual was not included in a press release issued Monday.

HHS went on to report that “all available evidence” continues to indicate cooling towers are the most likely source of the outbreak, although laboratory testing has not confirmed a direct source, and officials have thus far declined to disclose which 12 towers were tested.

Each business center with a cooling tower in the affected area has completed disinfection.

“We are encouraged to see fewer new cases reported recently,” said Dr. Robert Kruse, State Medical Director. “Our teams remain engaged with building owners on disinfection and it will take additional time to know if this decline reflects successful remediation.”

Individuals who live, work, or have spent time in north central Marshalltown with a cough, fever, or other symptoms of pneumonia should see their health care provider and ask about Legionella. The Marshall County Health Department, Iowa HHS, and the CDC continue to investigate all possible sources while working with business centers on remediation and prevention efforts.