North Carolina Sees 50% Jump in Legionnaires' Disease Cases

State health officials cite warmer climate as potential factor in sharp rise of deadly lung infection

Apr. 18, 2026 at 3:55am

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph revealing the intricate internal structure of a water faucet, with ghostly glowing pipes and valves against a dark background, conceptually representing the hidden dangers of Legionella bacteria in water systems.As North Carolina grapples with a sharp rise in Legionnaires' disease, the unseen threat of bacteria festering in water systems comes into focus.Today in Raleigh

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported a 54% increase in Legionnaires' disease cases, jumping from 201 cases in 2024 to 310 in 2025. While the exact cause is unclear, experts believe the state's warmer climate may be playing a role in the growth of the Legionella bacteria that causes the severe type of pneumonia.

Why it matters

Legionnaires' disease can be a very serious illness that can lead to death, especially for those at higher risk such as older adults, smokers, and those with certain medical conditions. The sharp rise in cases highlights the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts around maintaining water systems to control the spread of the Legionella bacteria.

The details

According to Dr. Erica Wilson of the NCDHHS, the Legionella bacteria that causes Legionnaires' disease thrives in warm, moist environments. To prevent the disease, health officials recommend flushing faucets, maintaining hot tubs, cleaning medical equipment, replacing water filters, and draining standing water from hoses and car windshield wiper fluid reservoirs.

  • In 2024, there were 201 reported cases of Legionnaires' disease in North Carolina.
  • In 2025, the number of cases jumped to 310, a 54% increase.

The players

North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS)

The state health agency that tracks and reports on Legionnaires' disease cases in North Carolina.

Dr. Erica Wilson

The medical director for the medical consultation unit in the communicable disease branch at NCDHHS.

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What they’re saying

“We don't entirely know why cases are increasing, but suspect that it has to do with weather and increased warm temperatures since Legionnaires Legionella bacteria that likes to grow in warm, moist environments.”

— Dr. Erica Wilson, Medical Director, NCDHHS

“It can be very serious illness that can cause death, especially for folks that are particularly vulnerable.”

— Dr. Erica Wilson, Medical Director, NCDHHS

What’s next

Health officials say staying aware and taking prevention steps now, such as properly maintaining water systems, can make a big difference in controlling the spread of Legionnaires' disease. The state will continue to monitor case numbers and work to identify the root causes of the sharp rise.

The takeaway

The significant increase in Legionnaires' disease cases in North Carolina highlights the need for greater public awareness and proactive prevention efforts around maintaining water systems and controlling the growth of Legionella bacteria, especially as the state's climate continues to warm.