A Columbus, Ohio, hospital recently diagnosed two patients with Legionnaires’ Disease. Unfortunately, this is not the area’s first encounter with the disease.
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explain Legionnaires’ disease is a bacterial infection. If exposed, the patient can develop a serious form of pneumonia. A patient develops the disease if exposed to bacteria through inhalation of contaminated water mist or accidental swallowing of contaminated water into the lungs, known as aspiration.
Symptoms can include fever, cough, chills and muscle aches.
What was the past issue with this disease?
This is the third encounter with the disease in the area this year alone. In May and June, 16 people became ill from exposure to the bacteria at Mount Carmel Grove City. Two patients died due to complications from the disease. An inspection revealed that the disease was the result of a failure to properly disinfect the hospital’s water system. Hospital administration stated the problem was no longer an issue.
In August, a report explained legionella bacteria was found in the water supply at Mount Carmel College of Nursing.
What remedies are available for those who develop Legionnaires’ disease?
Those who suffer serious injury or death related to Legionnaires’ disease are likely eligible for compensation through a civil suit. These legal remedies are generally available if the exposure is the result of a hospital’s negligence. Victims or those who lost loved ones to Legionnaires’ disease are wise to reach out to legal counsel to discuss their options.