Melbourne is facing a significant outbreak of Legionnaires' disease, with 40 confirmed cases and 6 suspected since Friday, primarily affecting adults over 40 years old. Many patients have required hospitalization, including several in intensive care due to severe pneumonia. The outbreak is linked to Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1, with local cooling towers suspected as a potential source, prompting health authorities to conduct inspections. Symptoms of the disease include fever, chills, cough, and muscle aches, with heightened risks for individuals with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems. Public health officials are urging those in metropolitan Melbourne to seek urgent medical attention if they experience symptoms. Notably, Legionnaires' disease is not contagious and spreads through inhalation of contaminated water droplets.