What is Legionnaire's disease? Five cases identified in NH. What officials say caused it

Five cases of Legionnaire's disease have been identified in New Hampshire, the state's Department of Health and Human Services officials announced Monday.

The cases occurred in people who had visited Lincoln in June and July.

Officials are cautioning people who have visited an area of downtown Lincoln to monitor themselves for symptoms.

Legionnaire's disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the lungs and can be serious — about 1 out of every 10 people who get infected with the disease will die from complications, according to the CDC .

Here's what to know about the outbreak, including what officials think caused it.

Legionnaire's disease identified in Lincoln, NH

New Hampshire public health officials announced are warning people who have visited downtown Lincoln recently to monitor themselves for symptoms of pneumonia after the five cases were of Legionnaire's disease were uncovered.

“People who develop fever or other symptoms of pneumonia within 14 days after spending time in this area should talk to their healthcare provider about testing for Legionella infection," said Dr. Benjamin Chan, New Hampshire State Epidemiologist.

What caused the Legionnaire's outbreak in Lincoln, NH?

New Hampshire public health officials said the Legionnaire's disease outbreak in Lincoln was traced back to a cooling tower behind the RiverWalk Resort.

An investigation and testing by state officials found the Legionella bacteria, which causes Legionnaire's disease, in the water coming from the cooling tower.

Officials said remediation of the tower is ongoing, but it will still be in operation during the process, so people in the area should be cautious.

What is Legionnaire's disease?

Legionnaire's disease is a bacterial infection in the lungs caused by exposure to water contaminated with the Legionella bacteria, according to the CDC.

It can take up to 14 days after exposure to develop Legionnaire's disease symptoms, which include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches and shortness of breath.

The disease can be treated with antibiotics, and most healthy people who get infected usually get better.

However, the CDC says Legionnaire's disease can cause complications such as lung failure that can be fatal; about 1 in 10 people who get Legionnaires' disease will die due to complications.

This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: What is Legionnaire's disease? Five cases identified in NH. What officials say caused it