GM Closes Warren Facility After Two Workers Test Positive for Legionnaires’ Disease
WARREN, MICHIGAN — General Motors has temporarily closed its Cole Engineering Center in Warren after two employees tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease, company officials confirmed.
Closure Out of Caution
The company said it was notified of the infections by the Macomb County Health Department late Wednesday. GM spokesperson Tara Stewart Kuhnen announced the facility will remain closed until at least September 22, pending further investigation.
“Out of an abundance of caution, GM took immediate action to close the building and has ordered comprehensive third-party testing for the site,” the statement read.
About Legionnaires’ Disease
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by breathing in mist that contains the Legionella bacteria.
The bacteria can spread through building water systems, including sinks, showers, hot tubs, and HVAC systems. It is not typically spread person-to-person.
Symptoms and Risks
Symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after exposure and can include:
- Persistent cough
- Fever
- Headaches and muscle aches
- Shortness of breath
Most healthy individuals exposed do not develop the illness. However, people over 50 years old, smokers, and those with conditions like lung disease, cancer, or diabetes are at higher risk.
The CDC estimates that about 1 in 10 people who contract Legionnaires’ disease may die due to complications.
Testing and Next Steps
GM emphasized that its routine bacteria testing had not revealed any prior issues, and the Cole facility has not yet been confirmed as the source of the infections. The company is working with health officials while awaiting third-party test results.
Community Concerns
The closure has drawn attention in Warren, where thousands of workers report daily to GM facilities. Local health officials have not announced additional confirmed cases linked to the site.
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