Shocking Outbreaks of Legionnaire’s Disease at Denver Hotel
Legionnaire’s Disease in Denver
Recent events at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Denver Aurora raise serious concerns about Legionnaire’s Disease and other infectious diseases that may be encountered by travelers.
According to a report issued by the Arapahoe Public Health Department on April 16, 2024, the first case of Legionnaire’s Disease was discovered on April 21, 2023. An additional five cases were reported in December 2023 and January 2024. Three of the victims were hospitalized in serious condition. One victim died.
Details of the case are very troubling. Following an investigation by the health department, traces of the bacteria that causes Legionnaire’s Disease were found in the hotel spa, which is thought to be the source of the outbreak. Even more disturbing is evidence of potentially illegal behavior by individuals working with the hotel. The health department found falsified maintenance logs for the spa in the months leading up to the first reported case and the outbreak that occurred in December 2023 and January 2024. The health department issued an order closing the hotel on January 5, 2024. The hotel has since reopened.
What Is Legionnaire’s Disease?
Legionnaire’s Disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water environments. This illness may be contracted when individuals inhale microscopic water droplets containing the bacteria. Common sources include hot tubs, cooling towers, and large plumbing systems.
Symptoms of Legionnaire’s Disease resemble those of the flu, such as coughing, high fever, and muscle aches. Unfortunately, the disease can escalate to more severe complications, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems. Even in patients who recover from the disease, Legionnaire’s can be associated with long-term complications, including chronic fatigue and other neurological impairments.
Antibiotics are typically used to fight the infection, but early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment. As the disease is related to water systems, it often raises questions about safety protocols and can lead to premises liability claims if negligence is found to be a contributing factor.
Who Is Liable for Outbreaks of Legionnaire’s Disease?
Premises liability law holds property owners and managers responsible for maintaining a safe environment for visitors and residents. In the context of Legionnaire’s Disease, this responsibility includes ensuring water systems are free from harmful levels of Legionella bacteria. When an individual contracts the disease due to exposure on a property with insufficient safety practices, the property owner may be liable for the resulting illness.
Legionnaire’s Disease cases often hinge on proving that the property owner was negligent in maintaining the water system or failed to address known risks. A successful premises liability claim must show that the owner knew or reasonably should have known about the potential for Legionella exposure and did not take appropriate action to mitigate the risk, leading directly to the individual’s illness.
Compensation Available in Legionnaire’s Disease Cases
Victims of Legionnaire’s Disease who can prove their illness was caused by a property owner’s negligence may seek compensation for various damages. These damages may include medical bills for hospital stays, treatments, and rehabilitation costs, which can be substantial given the severity of the disease. Compensation can also cover lost wages if the illness prevents the victim from working.
In tragic cases where Legionnaire’s Disease leads to wrongful death, the victim’s family may be entitled to compensation, including loss of emotional and financial support, funeral expenses, and loss of consortium or companionship.
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The attorneys at Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. have been helping people in Colorado and across the country for over 40 years, and we’ve won record-breaking verdicts for our clients. If you or a loved one was harmed due to someone else’s negligent behavior, our lawyers will investigate your case and advise you on the best strategy for moving forward.
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