State investigating 2 cases of Legionnaires’ disease on Kauai

The Hawaii Department of Health is investigating two confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in visitors staying at a condominium property on Kauai.

The visitors stayed at Nihi Kai Villas in Koloa, which consists of multiple buildings near Poipu Beach.

DOH said in a news release that the exact source of exposure and the extent of potential spread are still under investigation. Water testing results received in mid-October confirmed the Legionella bacteria present in the property’s water systems.

“The findings indicate a potential ongoing risk of exposure to the bacteria for guests and residents,” said DOH, which is working with Nihi Kai Villas to address the potential health risk.

Health officials are advising anyone who stayed there within the past two weeks to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms consistent with Legionnaires’ disease.

The investigation is also reviewing possible cases dating back to January 2025.

Legionnaires’ disease — a type of pneumonia caused by exposure to Legionella bacteria — does not spread from person to person. The risk to the general public is low, DOH said.

Legionella bacteria are naturally found in freshwater environments, according to DOH, and can grow in human-made water systems such as showerheads, sink faucets, hot tubs and large plumbing systems.

Symptoms, which typically develop two to 14 days after exposure, include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches and headache.

DOH said most healthy people exposed to Legionella bacteria do not become ill, but that people age 50 and older, current and former smokers, as well as those with a weakened immune system are at increased risk.

The disease is treatable with antibiotics.

Anyone who suspects they have Legionnaires’ disease, or who developed pneumonia within two weeks after staying at the property since January 2025, should contact DOH’s Disease Outbreak Control Division at 808-586-4586.