Pontiac, Michigan, January 23, 2026
Recent water testing at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Administration Building in Pontiac, Michigan, has confirmed the absence of Legionella bacteria, reflecting the success of remediation efforts. Following earlier detections linked to a case of Legionnaires’ disease, the building underwent thorough remediation measures. Ongoing monitoring and additional testing are scheduled to ensure continued safety for employees and the public.
Pontiac, Michigan – Oakland County Sheriff’s Administration Building Cleared of Legionella Bacteria
Recent water tests at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Administration Building in Pontiac, Michigan, have confirmed the absence of Legionella bacteria, indicating the effectiveness of remediation efforts following earlier detections. These results are part of ongoing measures to ensure the health and safety of employees and the public.
Background on Legionella Detection
In December 2025, water tests revealed the presence of Legionella bacteria in the Sheriff’s Administration Building after an employee was diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. In response, the building was temporarily closed, and comprehensive remediation steps were initiated, including water system flushing and filter installations. These actions aimed to eliminate the bacteria and prevent further health risks.
Recent Testing and Results
On January 13, 2026, water samples from multiple locations within the building were tested. The results, received on January 22, 2026, showed no traces of Legionella bacteria, confirming the success of the remediation efforts. Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter expressed optimism, stating that the results are encouraging and demonstrate that the remediation steps are working. He emphasized the county’s commitment to continuing rigorous testing and preventive practices to ensure the safety of all facilities.
Ongoing Monitoring and Preventive Measures
Despite the positive test results, Oakland County officials have committed to ongoing monitoring. Additional water tests are scheduled for the Sheriff’s Administration Building and the Oakland County Circuit Court Tower, with testing set to continue through May 2026. Routine water system flushing and other preventive measures are being implemented across all county buildings to maintain a safe environment. A Water Safety Committee has been established to oversee these efforts and ensure long-term water safety.
Public Health Information
Legionella bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia. It is not spread from person to person and is treatable with antibiotics. Most individuals exposed to the bacteria do not become ill. Symptoms include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, shortness of breath, confusion, diarrhea, and nausea. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
Conclusion
The recent test results from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Administration Building are a positive development in the county’s ongoing efforts to address Legionella concerns. Continued vigilance and preventive measures remain essential to ensure the health and safety of all building occupants and the public.
What were the results of the recent water tests at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Administration Building?
The water tests conducted on January 13, 2026, confirmed the absence of Legionella bacteria, indicating the effectiveness of the remediation efforts implemented in December 2025.
What actions were taken in response to the initial detection of Legionella bacteria?
Following the detection in December 2025, the Sheriff’s Administration Building was temporarily closed, and comprehensive remediation steps were initiated, including water system flushing and filter installations, to eliminate the bacteria and prevent further health risks.
Are there ongoing measures to monitor and prevent Legionella bacteria in county buildings?
Yes, additional water tests are scheduled for the Sheriff’s Administration Building and the Oakland County Circuit Court Tower, with testing set to continue through May 2026. Routine water system flushing and other preventive measures are being implemented across all county buildings to maintain a safe environment. A Water Safety Committee has been established to oversee these efforts and ensure long-term water safety.
What is Legionnaires’ disease, and how is it transmitted?
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. It is not spread from person to person and is treatable with antibiotics. Most individuals exposed to the bacteria do not become ill. Symptoms include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, shortness of breath, confusion, diarrhea, and nausea. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention promptly.
What is the current status of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Administration Building?
The building has been cleared of Legionella bacteria following recent water tests. It remains open, and ongoing monitoring and preventive measures are in place to ensure the safety of all building occupants and the public.
Key Features of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Administration Building’s Legionella Remediation Efforts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Initial Detection | December 2025: Legionella bacteria detected after an employee diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. |
| Remediation Actions | Temporary closure of the building, water system flushing, and filter installations to eliminate bacteria. |
| Recent Testing | January 13, 2026: Water samples tested; results received on January 22, 2026, confirmed no Legionella bacteria present. |
| Ongoing Monitoring | Additional tests scheduled through May 2026; routine water system flushing and preventive measures implemented across all county buildings. |
| Water Safety Committee | Established to oversee remediation efforts and ensure long-term water safety in county facilities. |
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