Legionnaires' disease is spread by water droplets

A man in his 50s is said to be in a stable condition in hospital and a man in his 40s is also said to be in a stable condition but is being treated at home by his GP.

Tests confirmed on Friday that legionella bacteria found at the Bulmers cider plant was the source of the outbreak in Hereford.

The bacteria was identified in a cooling tower at the company's factory in Plough Lane on Monday.

The fact that they have been detected reassures us that the heightened state of awareness among local GPs and hospital staff is continuing. Dr Mike Deakin

Test results released by Herefordshire Council's environmental health department confirmed the type of legionella found was "scientifically consistent" with samples taken from the patients.

Dr Mike Deakin, Herefordshire's director of public health, said he had been expecting to see new cases as the incubation period was up to 14 days.

"One of these cases was detected by a GP, the other following admission to hospital.

"The fact that they have been detected reassures us that the heightened state of awareness among local GPs and hospital staff is continuing."

Bulmers' general manager Willy Crawshay said he wished to express his sympathy to all concerned.

"We absolutely regret the circumstances of this outbreak and our thoughts are very much with those that are poorly and we wish them a speedy recovery," he said.