MARSHALLTOWN, Iowa —

State health officials are investigating an outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease in Marshalltown that has affected 21 people and claimed the life of a retired Catholic priest. The disease, caused by bacteria that spread through water droplets that are inhaled, has raised concerns in the community about its source.

Zach Maxfield, general manager of Marshalltown Water Works, assured residents that the town’s treated drinking water is not to blame.

“There’s no indication that it’s Marshalltown drinking water that is the cause of this,” Maxfield stated. He emphasized that the plant rigorously tests for all bacterial pathogens.

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is conducting tests to pinpoint the source of the outbreak. Officials believe the bacteria is more

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