Of all the types of pneumonia a person could suffer from, Legionnaires’ disease is one of the most serious. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 10,000 people are hospitalized because of the condition every year. Legionnaires’ disease is contracted when a person inhales or consumes contaminated water droplets or soil. In the majority of cases, though, the disease is entirely preventable. Property owners must create a water management plan to prevent the legionella bacteria from developing. These are the industry standards for manufacturers and operators of hot tubs, water cooling towers, and other places that contain water. Without proper water management plans, legionella bacteria can multiply in water sources, causing people to become sick. If you or a loved one has become sick, our Burbank Legionnaires’ disease lawyer can help you claim the compensation that is justly yours.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?Also known as legionellosis and legionella pneumonia, Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia. The sickness is caused by the legionella bacteria. Pontiac fever, also known as Pontiac disease, is also caused by legionella bacteria, but it is not nearly as serious.
Legionella bacteria are found in both indoor and outdoor environments. When the water within a system is warm, the bacteria can multiply quite quickly. Legionella can be found wherever water is present, including in hot tubs, cooling towers, decorative fountains, hot water tanks, and particularly in the plumbing systems of larger structures.
After people inhale the mist or vapor, or consume water contaminated with the legionella bacteria, they can become very sick. People will start showing signs of symptoms within two and 10 days after exposure, although symptoms may not develop until 16 days afterward. Many people who are exposed do not suffer any ill effects, but for one in 10 people, the condition is fatal. If you have been diagnosed with this disease, reach out to a Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Burbank today.
What Complications Does Legionnaires’ Disease Cause?Most people who contract Legionnaires’ disease do not even become sick. Most of those who do make a full recovery. Sadly, those who do become sick may suffer a number of complications, some of which are life-threatening. These include:
If you or a loved one has contracted Legionnaires’ disease after being exposed to negligent conditions, you likely have many questions. At Brod Law Firm, our Burbank Legionnaires’ disease attorney can answer them while also helping you recover the maximum damages you justly deserve. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or reach out to us online to schedule a free consultation.