The Riverwalk Resort in Lincoln, New Hampshire, has reportedly addressed issues related to recent cases of Legionnaires' disease. According to state health officials, five individuals contracted the illness during June and July, with several requiring hospitalization for treatment.

In response to the concerns, the Riverwalk Resort released a statement on Tuesday, indicating that tests conducted on cooling tower sanitation efforts showed successful results. However, the state is yet to receive its own test results for confirmation.

Dr. Benjamin Chan, the state epidemiologist, expressed optimism, stating, "We think the risk is likely much less, but we won't know for sure whether that cleaning and disinfection was fully effective until we get the test results back in the next seven or 10 days."

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services has identified at least five individuals affected by Legionnaires' disease, all of whom may have been exposed to contaminated water droplets from the cooling tower situated behind the Riverwalk Resort in downtown Lincoln.

Health officials had previously issued warnings for older individuals and those with compromised immune systems to avoid a half-mile radius around the resort due to potential exposure risks.

Residents and workers in the surrounding area expressed concerns over the possibility of infection. Maria McIntyre, program coordinator for Lin-Wood Senior Services, highlighted the impact of COVID-19 on public awareness: "I think COVID may have prepared us for what's next and all of the contagion or something that could affect the vulnerable population."

Dr. Chan reassured the general public by stating that most healthy individuals exposed to the bacteria would not develop illness.

The Riverwalk Resort's efforts to address the identified issues are ongoing as they await further test results. The state is expected to receive these results within the next seven to ten days, which will provide a clearer understanding of the effectiveness of the sanitation measures taken.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and informed about any updates or developments related to Legionnaires' disease in their area.