Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal illness caused by the bacterium Legionella. These bacteria are often found in hot tubs, cooling towers, and air conditioning systems.
According to CNN, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently investigated the prevalence of Legionnaires’ disease infections associated with healthcare facilities. The study involved an analysis of data from 20 states and one major city.
According to the researchers, residents in 76 percent of the investigated areas had been infected with Legionnaires’ disease while staying at a healthcare facility. Nearly 4 in 5 cases of definite exposure to the bacterium originated in long-term care facilities.
Many of these infections were caused by the negligence of doctors and nursing home staff. If your loved one contracted Legionnaires’ disease at a long-term care facility, he or she may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and other damages.
Unfortunately, tying the diagnosis to nursing home negligence is a legally complicated process. This is where a nursing home attorney can help.
Yao O. Dinizulu is a nursing home abuse lawyer in Chicago who will evaluate your case to determine if your loved one may have grounds for a nursing home claim. Call 312-384-1920 today to schedule a free initial consultation at the Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd.
Read on to learn the answers to five frequently asked questions about Legionnaires’ disease:
- How common is Legionnaires’ disease?
Every year, between 8,000 and 18,000 people are hospitalized with Legionnaires’ disease. Between 5 percent and 30 percent of people who develop Legionnaires’ disease die. The elderly are more vulnerable to the disease than younger individuals.
- Does Legionnaires’ disease spread by human contact?
No. Legionnaires’ disease is not spread by contact; it is spread through the air.
- What are the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease?
Early symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include headaches, muscle aches, and a high fever—which can reach 104 or even 105 degrees. Most people who are diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease eventually develop pneumonia.
- How is Legionnaires’ disease diagnosed?
According to Mayo Clinic, a doctor can diagnose Legionnaires’ disease by:
- Evaluating blood test results;
- Taking X-rays of the chest to identify the extent of a lung infection;
- Examining a test sample of lung tissue; or
- Evaluating a CT scan of the brain or performing a spinal tap to investigate neurological symptoms.
- What are common treatments for Legionnaires’ disease?
Antibiotics are used to treat Legionnaires’ disease. Early treatment can reduce the likelihood of serious complications or death.
If you think your loved one developed Legionnaires’ disease due to nursing home negligence, contact the Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd. Yao O. Dinizulu will answer your questions and help you navigate the nursing home claims process.
Mr. Dinizulu will evaluate your case, gather evidence, and help you pursue the maximum compensation. Call 312-384-1920 today to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced nursing home abuse attorney in Illinois.
