There are many different types of pneumonia a person can suffer, and they are all considered very serious illnesses. However, out of the different pneumonias, Legionnaires’ disease is one of the most severe. Approximately 10,000 people are hospitalized each year for Legionnaires’ disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A person can contract Legionnaires’ disease in a number of places including hot tubs, nursing homes, and hospitals. Regardless of where a person comes into contact with the legionella bacteria, it is usually entirely preventable. All property owners have a legal duty to make sure their premises are safe for anyone who enters. When preventing legionnaires’ disease, property owners, operators, and manufacturers must ensure there is a water management plan in place so no one becomes sick. If any of these parties failed to fulfill their legal duty, they can be held liable. Our Indio Legionnaires’ disease lawyer can help you through the process.
Understanding Legionnaires’ DiseaseLegionnaires’ disease is also known as legionella pneumonia or legionellosis, as it is the legionella bacteria that causes the disease. Pontiac disease, also known as Pontiac fever, is also caused by the legionella bacteria but this infection is not nearly as serious as legionnaires’ disease. The legionella bacteria can be found anywhere there is water, such as in water cooling systems, hot tubs, plumbing systems, hot water tanks, and fountains.
Simply being exposed to the legionella bacteria does not necessarily mean that a person will contract Legionnaires’ disease. Many people are exposed and never become sick at all. However, if the bacteria is consumed or inhaled, they may start to experience the symptoms of legionnaires’ disease within two to 10 days. For one in ten Americans who become sick, the disease is fatal. The family members of those individuals may be able to obtain financial compensation for their losses with the help of a Legionnarires’ disease attorney in Indio.
Complications Associated with Legionnaires’ DiseaseEven people who contract legionnaires’ disease usually make a full recovery. Sometimes, though, the sickness results in life-threatening complications.
One of the most serious complications of legionnaires’ disease is respiratory failure. When the respiratory system has suffered damage, such as when the arteries lose significant oxygen or there are changes in the lungs, it can result in respiratory failure. Once the respiratory system starts to fail, there is very little chance that a person will make a full recovery.
Another serious complication of Legionnaires’ disease is sepsis. Sepsis occurs when there is an infection in the bloodstream. Eventually, the organs can begin to fail, resulting in a life-threatening condition. Sepsis often causes the kidneys to fail, resulting in waste remaining in the system because the kidneys can no longer eliminate it. The heart valves, as well as the inner lining of the heart, can also suffer damage after sepsis has developed.
Our Legionnaires’ Disease Lawyer in Indio Can Determine LiabilityIf you or someone you love has developed Legionnaires’ disease due to another person’s negligence, you need legal help. At Brod Law Firm, our Indio Legionnaires’ disease attorney can identify the liable party, hold them accountable for paying the full damages you deserve, and answer any questions you have. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to get more information.