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OLYMPIA — Thurston County officials say two recent cases of Legionnaires’ disease are connected to a local motel.

Health officials say the motel is being tested for the presence of bacteria that causes the illness.

Two people who recently stayed at the Super 8 Motel on Martin Way in Lacey have contracted Legionnaires’ disease. This serious form of pneumonia is caused by the Legionella bacteria found naturally in the environment, usually in water.

Hotel whirlpools, showers, and air conditioning units have previously been shown to be sources of Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks. People get Legionnaires’ disease when they breathe in the mist or vapor of water that has been contaminated with the bacteria. The bacteria are not spread from person to person.

County health officials recommend anyone who stayed at the motel monitor their own health for symptoms including cough, tiredness, chest pain and fever.