One patient dead in Ohio Legionnaires’ disease outbreak
Posted in Accident & Injury on June 5, 2019
Just weeks after Mount Carmel Health System’s new location opened its doors in Grove City, the hospital is under fire for putting patients at risk.
At least 16 people were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease after being hospitalized at Mount Carmel Grove City, and one of those patients has died. The hospital was ordered to take steps to protect the public, including implementing water restrictions and doing supplemental disinfection of the water supply.
As health officials and hospital leadership search for the source of the outbreak, those affected have been left with many unanswered questions.
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe type of pneumonia some people develop after breathing in mist containing legionella bacteria – often from sources like building ventilation and cooling systems. It’s not generally spread through person-to-person contact.
Elderly people, smokers, and others with weakened immune systems or underlying illnesses are all at greater risk of developing Legionnaires’ disease. There is no vaccine, and 1 in 10 affected people die from the infection. Death rates are often higher in nursing homes and hospitals, where patients are in more vulnerable states.
What are the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease?
Legionnaires’ disease can take 2-10 days to develop after a person is exposed to legionella bacteria. Symptoms include:
- Muscle aches and pain
- Headaches
- Fever and/or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
If you or a loved one develop these symptoms after being hospitalized, contact your primary care physician as soon as possible.
Were you or your loved one affected by the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak? Contact us today to learn about your legal options.