Legionnaires’ cases in Holme Wood are being investigated

It comes after Legionella bacteria was found in the water system at a sheltered housing complex in the same area, Holme Wood.

Accent Housing told the Telegraph & Argus that two Morrell Court residents had the disease, but both have since recovered.

READ: What is Legionella bacteria and how dangerous can it be?

One resident - of the sheltered housing scheme which contains 37 flats and six bungalows - is still extremely concerned.

"I am petrified," the resident said.

"People who live here have health problems.

"I am nervous and I know a lot more here are too."

Morrell Court (Image: Newsquest)

UKHSA said it is working closely with environmental health officers at Bradford Council and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) to provide public health advice, find out if the cluster of cases are linked and to try to establish the possible source.

It said the wider risk to public health is low as the disease is not spread easily.

Dr Mercy Vergis, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “I am sorry to hear that any resident is concerned.

"At this stage, details are still being confirmed, but we are undertaking further investigations that will provide us with more information.

“Legionella bacteria is widely distributed in the environment and can multiply in large water systems within buildings.

"It is vital that water systems are properly maintained with regular testing and treatment to ensure that bacteria do not multiply and cause a risk to health.

“Legionnaires’ disease is routinely treated with antibiotics and most people make a full recovery after hospital treatment. It is not usually passed from person to person.

“Signs and symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include a flu-like illness with muscle aches, tiredness, headaches, dry cough and fever.

"People with these symptoms should contact NHS 111 or their GP.”

A spokesperson from Accent Housing said: "We can confirm we are working to remove the presence of Legionella bacteria from the water system at Morrell Court.

"This work is ensuring customers can remain safe in their homes which is our priority.

"There are no residents currently being treated for Legionnaires'.

"We are continuing to work closely with all the relevant agencies.

"In addition to this, support and advice has been given to all residents, ensuring contact with our staff is available at all times. 

"At Accent Housing, we manage over 20,500 homes and our priority is to ensure that customers are safe and comfortable in their homes."

Have you, or do you know someone, been affected by the disease in Holme Wood? Email newsdesk@telegraphandargus.co.uk