Legionnaires’ Disease

Water is the lifeblood of the universe, but it includes some living things that are harmful. Legionella, a very dangerous bacteria, festers in lukewarm water in areas such as hot tubs, water towers, spas, humidifiers, and hospitals. Legionella bacteria can cause potentially deadly Legionnaires’ Disease when an unsuspecting person inhales the contaminated water or water vapor. Victims can suffer from fever, muscle pain, diarrhea, and in more severe cases, potentially fatal pneumonia. Legionnaires’ Disease is particularly dangerous because no vaccine exists, and a staggering 10% of reported cases are fatalities.

Unfortunately, some owners of public aquatic facilities do not take their responsibility for preventing Legionella seriously enough. Many victims contract Legionnaires’ Disease in places where it could have been easily prevented. Legionella outbreak investigations often reveal that disinfection protocols — such as using chlorine in a hot tub — are not followed by facility managers. If you or a loved one developed Legionnaires’ Disease at a public facility, you may be entitled to money damages and should seek legal support immediately.