Queensland Health officers visited the mine last week to take samples and test potential sources of the bacteria, but are still waiting on the results.
Legionnaire’s disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, which are common in the environment and can be found in creeks, ponds and soil.
The two workers who tested positive to the disease have since been discharged from Rockhampton Hospital but other workers and contractors at Grasstree Mine are being warned of likely symptoms.
Central Area Health Service Public Health physician Dr Margaret Young said any mine employees or contractors who become ill with fever and cough in the next one to two weeks should see their local GP or hospital for assessment.
A spokesperson for Anglo Coal Australia yesterday advised that a risk assessment was underway in relation to the protection of employees at Grasstree Mine following the treatment of two employees.
“We are undertaking a complete risk assessment to ensure that employees are protected from any potential source of Legionella and that appropriate control measures are put in place,” Capcoal Underground Operations general manager Martin Ryan said.
“In the meantime, control measures – including cleaning and testing – have been implemented to ensure employees are protected from possible exposure to the bacteria.”
People who receive early effective treatment for legionnaire's disease usually begin to improve within three to five days.
International Longwall News understands the Grasstree mine is still evacuated until the all clear is given from the relevant occupational health and safety authority.
