MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa (KCRG) - The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services says there are now at least 61 cases of Legionnaires’ disease in Marshall County.

State officials reported an increase in Legionnaires’ disease cases from 54 on Monday to 61 on Tuesday. The number of cases has nearly tripled in less than two weeks.

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services first reported on the illness in the region on September 4. A retired Catholic priest is the only confirmed death so far.

Local health officials are ramping up efforts to identify the source of the Legionella bacteria. Residents are seeking more details regarding specific areas of Marshalltown that may be affected.

The Marshall County Public Health Director says testing of cooling towers in the area is underway. S

See Full Page