Local News: August 29, 2023

- Twelve Cases and One Death Caused By Respiratory Infection in Tompkins County -

Tompkins Whole Health reports that 12 people in the City and Town of Ithaca have contracted Legionellosis. The health department announced on August 28 that one person had died of the disease. It’s commonly called Legionnaire’s Disease, Pontiac Fever, or Extrapulmonary Legionellosis. Symptoms include muscle aches, cough, high fever, and headaches. It is a bacterial disease and can become pneumonia if untreated. Whole Health says people with weakened immune systems, current or former smokers, those with chronic lung diseases and anyone over 50 is at greatest risk. If you develop symptoms see a healthcare provider immediately. Health officials say most cases can be treated with a course of antibiotics.

Legionella is not spread by person-to-person contact. The bacteria is often found in cooling towers, large plumbing systems, hot water tanks, hot tubs, and fountains that are not properly maintained. Tompkins Whole Health and state Department of Health are inspecting local towers. The source of the cases is not known. You can find more information here.

- Ten People Arrested In Connection to Kidnapped and Murdered Ithaca Man -

Ten people have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of Ithaca resident Thomas Rath. Rath was first reported missing from Ithaca’s homeless encampment in May. The Ithaca Voice reports State Police announced on Monday that Rath’s body was found in a shallow grave on state land in Tioga County on August 3. Officials say he was killed in Tioga County within 24 hours of his abduction. So far everyone arrested is from Ithaca or nearby. All except one of them is in custody. Police say more arrests are planned.