CDC Reports Increase in Legionnaires’ Disease Cases
By admin on December 6, 2011
Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially life-threatening pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, has seen an alarming increase in the past decade, according to a report issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to Allvoices.com, the CDC’s report shows that cases involving Legionnaires’ disease have tripled in the last 10 years, with major unexplained increases in New England in 2011.
Other states with startling flare-ups include Maine, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, all with double the amount of cases from last year, and there have also been sharp increases in northeastern states as well. An advisory was issued to all state healthcare providers to look out for any patients who have Legionnaires’ disease or may be experiencing symptoms of the disease, and to report any of these cases.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by the inhaling of an infectious dose of Legionella bacteria, which is often found in contaminated water sources such as whirlpool spas, showers, faucets, and cooling towers. The symptoms of this disease are similar to the flu which can make it hard to diagnose initially, but can include:
- Cough;
- Chills;
- High fever;
- Muscle aches; and
- Headaches.
Legionnaires’ symptoms usually begin within 2 to 14 days of being exposed to the bacteria.
In July, an outbreak of Legionnaires’ was seen at the luxury Las Vegas resort Aria, but other reported outbreaks have been seen in hotels in Hamilton, Ontario and Ocean City, Maryland. In addition, residents in a Cleveland nursing facility contracted the disease in June, as well as a number of Playboy mansion guests getting the disease at a party in February. All of these reported cases show that Legionnaires’ disease can be caught at a variety of places, so it is important to be wary of public places that may have a contaminated water source.
As the symptoms of Legionnaires disease are similar to the flu, this winter season it is important to see a medical provider if you experience any flu-like symptoms to ensure it is nothing more than a seasonal cold or flu. This disease can be very serious and can cause death in five to 30% of cases. If you or a loved has contracted Legionnaires’ disease that was the fault of another party or business, such as a hotel, the Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Maryland, Steven H. Heisler, can help. Heisler is one of the few attorneys in the country that handles these types of cases, and he can help you get the compensation you deserve for your illness. Please call (877) 228-4878 for a free consultation.
MMWR Releases 10-Year Nationwide Legionellosis Case Assessment
By admin on September 12, 2011
Legionnaires’ disease (LD), a serious and potentially deadly form of pneumonia, and Pontiac fever (PF), a flu-like self-limited sickness, are the most common forms of legionellosis, although LD is much more common. Both are caused by the Legionella bacteria. In the study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), legionellosis cases across the nation were assessed from 2000 through 2009.
Data was compiled by the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System (NNDSS) and the Supplemental Legionnaires Disease Surveillance System (SLDSS). Some of the findings presented include the following:
- There were 22,418 reported cases of legionellosis from 2000 through 2009;
- Legionellosis cases in the U.S. increased 217 percent, from 1,110 cases in 2000 to 3,522 in 2009;
- 99.5 percent of all legionellosis cases were classified as LD, and only 0.5 percent as PF;
- 16,595 of reported legionelliosis cases involved people 50-years-old and older;
- Legionellosis incidence rates increased 8 percent for children aged 9 years and younger and 287 percent for seniors aged 80 years and older; and
- 1,220 cases involving U.S. residents were travel-related, 81 percent domestic travel and 5 percent cruise ship travel.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by breathing in air, mist or water vapor that is contaminated with Legionella bacteria. The bacteria thrive in damp, warm places such as a building’s plumbing and/or air ventilation system. If these systems, as well as others, are not well maintained or are not properly tested for contaminants, the bacteria can spread throughout the entire system, infecting numerous people.
Poorly tested and/or maintained air and water systems can lead to an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease and threaten the lives of potentially thousands of people. Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” is an experienced Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Maryland and considers it inexcusable that a preventable disease has not only continued to infect people, but that its incidence rates have increased. If you have been diagnosed with Legionnaires disease as the result of poorly maintained or inadequately tested plumbing, air ventilation, air conditioning, or water treatment systems, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Contact Mr. Heisler today to learn more about your legal rights and options at (877) 228-4878.
Las Vegas Guests Exposed to Legionella Bacteria at Aria CityCenter Resort
By admin on July 15, 2011
Reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease among guests who recently stayed at Las Vegas CityCenter’s Aria resort have prompted MGM Resorts International to warn other guests of possible exposure to the Legionella bacteria, according to Fox 5 News.
The Southern Nevada Health District confirms that water samples tested positive for active Legionella bacteria between June 21 and July 4. Guests who stayed at the ARIA resort during that period are being contacted by resort authorities. The bacteria levels, found in the hot water system, were highlighted after several Aria guests were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. The Aria has a comprehensive water management program and active Legionella bacteria have not been detected in more recent tests, according to The Las Vegas Sun. The source of this infection and illness transmission was determined to have occurred at the resort property. Guests who contracted Legionnaires’ disease at the Aria have recovered.
Although, in this instance, those with Legionnaires’ disease have made a full recovery, it is not always the case. It is a life-threatening form of pneumonia caused by infection from the Legionella bacteria. Symptoms include headache, chills, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue, cough, confusion, and loss of appetite. Though it may be fully cured if diagnosed and treated early, there are long-term effect risks with Legionnaires’ disease, which may include confusion, both short and long term memory loss, and fatigue.
In order to maintain a safe and healthy environment for their guests, patients, and residents, large buildings must take reasonable care to ensure that the buildings ventilation and plumbing systems are clean, regulated, and tested. If you or someone you love has contracted Legionnaires’ disease as the result of a property owner’s negligence or oversight, you may be entitled to legal recourse.
“The Injury Lawyer” Steven H. Heisler is an experienced Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Maryland and can help you understand your legal rights and advise you on the right course of legal action for your particular situation. To find out more about pursuing the compensation you deserve, call Mr. Heisler at 877-228-HURT.
Legionella Bacteria Confirmed at Playboy Mansion as Cause of Guests’ Illnesses
By injuheis on March 2, 2011
Los Angeles County Public Health Officials have confirmed the presence of Legionella bacteria at the Playboy Mansion, also known as Hugh Hefner’s Holmby Hills estate. According to The Daily Mail Reporter, over 700 guests were at a party on February 3. Two days later, tons of guests complained of the same symptoms, some of which included fever, intense headaches, and respiratory problems. Those in charge of the conference that held the party at the Playboy Mansion noticed a trend and an official investigation was launched.
The article reports that four Swedish men who were at the Playboy Mansion were diagnosed with Legionellosis or pontiac fever, which is a milder form of Legionnaries’ disease caused by bacteria found in warm air-conditioning units. Legionella is frequently found in moist environments, and an atmospheric fog machine was used at the party. The LA County’s Director of Public Health has not dismissed the possibility that other illnesses may have contributed to the hundreds of people who became ill.
While there are tests and treatments for Legionnaires’ disease, a person who has contracted the illness can suffer potentially long-term effects such as confusion, short and/or long term memory loss, fatigue, and the onset of asthma. Other symptoms include problems concentrating, malaise, neuromuscular symptoms (joint pain and muscle weakness), cough, and shortness of breath when exerted.
In the most serious of cases when the disease is not treated or diagnosed properly, an individual is at risk of suffering respiratory failure, septic shock, acute kidney failure, and even death.
A person who has contracted Legionnaries’ disease due to a property owner’s oversight or another form of negligence may be able to obtain compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages. To learn more about your legal rights, contact Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” at 877-228-4878. As an experienced Legionnaries’ disease attorney, Mr. Heisler has the legal knowledge and resources to protect your rights.
Signs of Legionella Found in New York Nursing Home’s Water Supply
By admin on February 8, 2011
St. Luke’s Home, a New-York based nursing home, recently discovered traces of Legionella bacteria in its water systems, according to NBC news affiliate WKTV. The bacteria are known for causing Legionnaires’ disease, a lung disease that can result in death.
St. Luke’s Home regularly tests its water supply for Legionella and other dangerous microorganisms. In mid-January, St. Luke’s found traces of Legionella in certain limited places in the nursing home’s water delivery systems. The home notified the New York Department of Public Health, which decided to limit the use of the nursing home’s water systems until filters could be installed. St. Luke’s expected to have the filters in place by the end of January.
Legionella bacteria thrive in enclosed systems that contain warm water, such as those found in nursing homes, hospitals, and similar institutions. The bacteria enter a person’s body when contaminated water is drunk or water vapor is inhaled. The disease cannot be transmitted between people directly. Most people exposed to Legionella do not become ill, but Legionnaires’ disease can have serious consequences for those with weakened immune systems, including the elderly, children, and those with autoimmune disease.
People who become ill from Legionnaires’ disease have certain legal rights. The best option for protecting these rights is to hire an experienced Legionnaires’ disease attorney who has experience successfully handling Legionnaires’ disease cases. Attorney Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” has a proven track record protecting those who have suffered because of Legionella bacteria. To learn how Steven H. Heisler can help you, call 877-228-4878 today to schedule a free and confidential case evaluation.
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What Tests and Treatments Are Available for Legionnaires’ Disease?
By admin on January 3, 2011
Legionnaires’ disease is a lung condition caused by the Legionella bacteria. It is also known as Legionella pneumonia because it can cause similar symptoms to regular pneumonia. Most cases of Legionnaires’ disease infect the elderly, who are particularly susceptible to severe damage or even death.
A doctor or health care provider checking a patient for Legionnaires’ disease will likely begin with a physical exam, which includes listening to the lungs with a stethoscope. If a doctor suspects a person has contacted Legionnaires’ disease, they may order a number of tests, including:
- A check of the gases in the blood, which helps determine if a patient’s lungs are transmitting enough oxygen.
- A chest x-ray.
- A complete blood count (CBC), which looks at the cells in the blood.
- A urine test to check for Legionella bacteria.
- Cultures to find Legionella bacteria or the body’s antibodies against it.
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, another blood test.
- Liver function tests.
If testing reveals a person has Legionnaires’ disease, several treatment options are available. Antibiotics are frequently used to kill the bacteria. A patient may also be given fluids or electrolytes if the disease has dehydrated them, as well as oxygen to help them breathe. A physician may order additional treatments for the condition.
Tests and treatments for Legionnaires’ disease can be expensive. If you have contacted Legionnaires’ disease because of a hospital or other institution’s failure to maintain water cleanliness, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical bills and other expenses. Legionnaires’ disease attorney Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” has experience seeking compensation for those with Legionnaires’ disease. For a free and confidential consultation, contact Steven H. Heisler today at 877-228-4878.
Lehigh University Former Cook Contracts Legionnaires’ Disease, Files Lawsuit
By injuheis on December 20, 2010
A lawsuit has been filed against Lehigh University by a former male cook who claims that the school is responsible for him contracting Legionnaires’ disease during the summer of 2009. According to an Express-Times article, the lawsuit alleges that the HVAC system at the University Center where the man worked as a cook housed the disease, causing him to be exposed to exhaust vapor, condensation, or other HVAC byproducts. Moreover, the man is unable to work due to his poor health and other complications.
The article states that the man was hospitalized for almost a month, spending a significant amount of time in the intensive care unit because of respiratory failure. The lawsuit is seeking compensation to help offset future medical bills, lost wages, as well as other damages brought on by complications associated with the disease.
Legionnaires’ disease is considered to be a form of pneumonia, but does not spread from person to person. Bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease lives in water and is sometimes discovered in HVAC and plumbing systems found at hospitals, nursing homes, and other large facilities. Individuals most susceptible to the disease are those with weakened respiratory or immune systems. Nevertheless, no matter what a person’s state of health, it is crucial for them to seek medical attention right away to ensure proper and timely treatment.
As this specific story demonstrates, Legionnaires’ disease is a serious condition that can put a person’s life in danger and present life-altering challenges on a physical and financial level. If you or someone you care about has suffered from this dangerous medical condition and you believe that another person’s negligence is to blame, you may be able to seek compensation. To learn more about your legal rights and options, call Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” at 877-228-4878 for a free consultation. As a Legionnaires’ disease attorney, Mr. Heisler will build a strong case on your behalf to ensure that negligent parties are held liable.
Waterborne Diseases Like Legionnaires’ Cost $539 Million a Year
By admin on December 13, 2010
Legionnaires’ disease, cryptosporidiosis, and giardiasis take a significant health toll on the thousands of U.S. citizens sickened by them each year. They also cost the U.S. health care system about $539 million per year, according to research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that was recently reported by Reuters.
Although the three diseases produce different symptoms, all three are transmitted by water. Patients catch Legionnaires’ disease and similar diseases either by drinking bacteria-contaminated water or by breathing droplets of that water suspended in humid air, like that found in showers and saunas. Legionnaires’ disease in particular thrives in warm water that is continuously recycled, making places like hospitals, nursing homes, and health clubs especially vulnerable to transmitting the waterborne disease.
In its early stages, Legionnaires’ disease often resembles pneumonia, but its effects are more dangerous. The disease can kill up to 30 percent of the people who contract it. The CDC estimates that around 18,000 Americans are sent to the hospital each year with Legionnaires’ disease, with an approximate cost of $34,000 per patient. Those who are treated early for the condition have the best chance of making a full recovery. Legionnaires’ disease can be treated with antibiotics.
Water supplies contaminated with bacteria may be the fault of those in charge of the water supply, who have a responsibility to ensure the water is properly filtered and kept clean. If you have caught a waterborne disease such as Legionnaires’ disease, you need the experience of Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer,” on your side. Let Mr. Heisler put his experience as a Maryland Legionnaires’ disease attorney to work for you. Call 877-228-4878 today for a free and confidential case evaluation.
Increased Cruise Ship Traffic May Increase Risk of Legionnaire’s Disease
By admin on November 29, 2010
For the past few years, a record number of cruise ships have set sail out of the Port of Baltimore, according to a recent article released by CBS affiliate WJZ. Baltimore offers an easy-access port for many passengers who are able to drive to Maryland instead of flying to a more remote location to begin their cruise. Although Baltimore natives are pleased with the increased tourism, including the rise in tourist revenue, most people don’t realize cruise ships can be a source of bacterial contamination, like Legionnaires’ disease.
Legionnaire’s disease is a lung infection caused by the Legionella bacteria, which causes symptoms like fever, chills, and a cough. The disease is similar to pneumonia and also to another bacterial infection called Pontiac Fever, which is a milder version of Legionnaire’s disease. The disease can kill up to 30 percent of those who are infected, particularly children, elderly people, and people with compromised immune systems.
Legionella grows best in warm water that is constantly recycled through a large system. Since the water systems on cruise ships are self-contained and the water is heated in a number of places to provide hot water for showers, hot tubs, and more, cruise ships become a prime habitat for Legionella bacteria. When these ships put into port, taking on or discharging water supplies may increase the risk of Legionella being released into Baltimore’s water supplies.
Legionnaire’s disease can be prevented by thorough regular maintenance, but some places, such as cruise ships, may not be maintaining proper cleanliness. If you or a loved one has contracted Legionnaire’s disease or another bacterial disease and you suspect that improperly maintained living quarters were the culprit, please don’t hesitate to contact Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer.” Mr. Heisler has experience with Legionnaires’ disease cases and will fight hard to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Call 877-228-4878 for a free and confidential consultation.
Jury Awards $4.5 Million to Legionnaire’s Disease Victims
By admin on November 23, 2010
On Thursday, November 18, a jury awarded $4.5 million to two road department employees from Jefferson County who contracted Legionnaire’s disease after staying in Oxford at the Wingate Inn during May 2008, reports AL.com.
The two men were limb truck operators and had been sent to assist with tornado damage cleanup. They were guests at the Wingate Inn for two weeks, and returned home on May 30. Both men felt very sick, and one was taken to a local hospital that night. He suffered respiratory failure and was forced to be on a ventilator for two weeks. The other was hospitalized three days later and was also put on a ventilator. It was determined that both workers had contracted Legionnaire’s disease, more than likely by using the Inn’s hot tub.
A Jefferson County Department of Health official visited the Inn on June 5 and ordered the hot tub to be closed, returning to take samples of the water two days later. However, the hot tub had been chlorinated and vacuumed, which was in direct violation of the directions the health department official had specified. The official was also given a log of daily inspections that appeared to be fake. At trial, the lawyers for the plaintiffs were given a different inspection log for the same date range, and this daily log also appeared to be falsified.
Each victim was awarded $1.5 million in compensatory damages as well as $750,000 in punitive damages in the Legionnaire’s disease lawsuit.
Legionnaire’s disease is a type of pneumonia that is caused by the bacteria Legionella penumophilia, which lives in moist conditions. Legionnaire’s disease is very serious, and affects between 10,000 and 50,000 Americans each year, killing between five and 30 percent of those infected. Symptoms of the disease are similar to the flu, and include fever, chills, cough, nausea, aching muscles, delirium, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, and excessive tiredness. If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
If you believe you contracted Legionnaire’s disease because of a contaminated water system, contact the Law Offices of Steven H. Heisler, “The Injury Lawyer.” Our skilled and experienced attorneys have dealt with many Legionnaire’s disease lawsuits and can help you win compensatory damages from any negligent person who caused your injury. Call our Legionnaire’s disease lawyers today at 877-228-4878 for a free consultation of your case.