An outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in St. Peter?s Hospital has prompted an investigation from public health officials.

The outbreak has been linked to several illnesses and one death. A state public health official says the hospital has also hired an outside consultant to investigate St. Peter's water supplies.

Legionnaires' disease is described as a type of pneumonia by the Center for Disease Control. The CDC says inhaling water droplets, mist or vapor containing the bacteria can lead to the disease, especially in people over 65 or with compromised immune systems.

A prepared statement by the Middlesex County Public Health Department stated they are concerned about the welfare and safety of all patients, staff and visitors. They plan on working with all concerned parties until this issue is resolved.

Family members are frustrated and shocked by the outbreak. Barbara Larson?s brother-in-law is a lung cancer patient at St. Peter?s who recently contracted the disease.

"You're just bitter because you're in the hospital and you feel like you're safe from any kind of disease or bugs or germs that can arise,? said Larson. ?And then something like Legionnaires' disease?How did this happen?"