Bathhouse operators at Hot Springs National Park are being urged to sanitize their bathing systems/NPS file

Bathhouse operators at Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas have been urged to sanitize their water systems to reduce the risk of having an outbreak of Legionella bacteria.

The National Park Service made that recommendation in consultation with the Arkansas Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to protect the health of those who visit the park.

Park Service spokesperson Alexandra Picavet said the recommendation wasn't spurred by anyone getting sick, but rather due to a past instance of a positive test for the bacteria. Early this year a preliminary test indicated the presence of the bacteria, but further testing failed to detect it.

Hot Springs National Park's many facilities and businesses remain open and offering guest services, however based on ongoing testing and evaluation, the National Park Service is recommending all facilities receiving thermal waters take immediate action to mitigate public risk.

It is not uncommon for building water systems to deliver positive test results for Legionella bacteria, however it is rare for people to get sick, a Park Service release said. Facilities can reduce the risk of bacterial growth by taking a few recommended steps. The NPS is recommending building owners/lessees discontinue using all showers plumbed to thermal water sources and begin disinfecting all tubs using thermal water.

Aerosolized water droplets (mist) containing Legionella bacteria can cause a severe pneumonia called Legionnaires’ disease when breathed in. Water is aerosolized when it moves through faucets, whirlpools, hot tubs, and showerheads.

Most exposed to Legionella will not get sick; however, it can cause severe illness in some. People who are at increased risk of getting sick include people 50 years or older, smokers, and those with chronic lung disease, weakened immune systems, or underlying illnesses such as diabetes, kidney failure, or liver failure. Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease usually begin 2–14 days after exposure and can include cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, headaches, and fever. Additional symptoms may be present, such as headache, confusion, nausea, or diarrhea. Legionnaires’ disease can be treated with antibiotics. 

Mitigation actions will further reduce the risk, and are appropriate steps in protecting public health. The park will begin working on a water management program to develop long-term mitigation techniques to reduce the risk of the bacteria as best as possible.

Those with symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease and exposure to thermal waters at Hot Springs National Park should seek medical attention. Doctors should test for Legionnaires’ disease with both a urine test and a respiratory culture. Anyone who tests positive should inform the Arkansas Department of Health as soon as possible at 501-537-8969.