ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The Chemung County Health Department, along with the state, are investigating an increased number of cases of Legionnaires' disease.

"Right now, Chemung County typically sees Legionella cases sporadically throughout the year," said Chemung County Health Department public health director, Peter Buzzetti. "We've noticed an increase. We have 7 cases of Legionellosis that we've begun investigating. Along with the state department of health."

Legionnaire's is contracted by breathing in tiny water droplets in the air which are contaminated with the bacteria. State Department of Health officials were in the area last week testing cooling towers and at least one decorative fountain in the county. They're also looking to do home testing this week.

"Environmental sampling was conducted by the state department of health last week," said Buzzetti. "Right now we don't have conclusive information yet. We're waiting for the data to come back on that sampling. Legionella bacteria is a slow grower in culture. So it could take 10 to 14 days."

Buzzetti says there's only a few people at risk of catching the disease. Like older people, people with compromised immune systems, or those with a history of smoking. As of right now, Buzzetti says people shouldn't change their daily routines. 

"No one in the public should adjust anything that they're doing at this time," said Buzzetti.

WENY News will continue to monitor any new developments with this story.