LEGIONNAIRES’ OUTBREAK AT BATAVIA RETIREMENT HOME

 Posted on September 12, 2019 in Personal Injury

Several more cases of Legionnaires Disease have been confirmed at a retirement community, Convenant Living at the Holmstad in Batavia, Kane County, Illinois. According to a news release from the Kane County Health Department, the retirement community is notifying residents, the residents’ identified contact, and staff after four more cases were confirmed. These 4 individuals are among the 251 which have been confirmed to date this year.

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious lung infection that people can get by breathing in small droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria. LD and Pontiac Fever (a less severe infection caused by the same type of bacteria) may also be called “legionellosis.”  The bacterium grows and spreads in human-made water systems. Officials with the Kane County Health Department said there are four more cases and that they are closely monitoring this situation.

Following exposure to the bacteria, the onset of symptoms is usually between 2-14 days. Symptoms of illness may include coughing, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headaches. People 50 years of age or older are at an increased risk of Legionnaire’s disease. Some studies indicate that more than a quarter of LD diagnoses are fatal. LD, also referred to as Legionella pneumonia, has several life-threatening complications, which include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Acute kidney failure. 
• Endocarditis. 
• Pericarditis. 
• Guillain-Barre Syndrome. 
• Respiratory failure. 
• Septic shock

Contact Our Illinois Legionnaires’ Disease Attorneys

Legionnaires’ disease can result in serious injuries to individuals and families, leading to debilitating conditions that impact people's health for years. In many cases, this can lead to wrongful death. Tomasik Kotin Kasserman, LLC, represents residents, families, and staff members who have been diagnosed with adverse health effects consistent with Legionnaires disease. If you or your loved ones have been affected by Legionnaires’ disease,  exposed to ethylene oxide in your home or at work, we can provide you with the legal help you need. Contact our office at 312-605-8800 to set up a free consultation.