Carlsbad Legionnaires’ Disease Lawyer
From 2013 to 2019, there were nearly 3,000 cases of Legionnaires’ disease throughout California, and for more than 300 people, the sickness was fatal. Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia that causes the lungs to become inflamed. Legionnaires’ disease is caused by the legionella bacteria, and while not everyone becomes sick after coming into contact with it, 10% of people tragically pass away from the illness. If you or someone you love has suffered harm due to Legionnaires’ disease, you may be eligible for compensation. Our Carlsbad Legionnaires’ disease lawyer can help you through the process so you obtain the full settlement you are entitled to.
Where is Legionella Bacteria Found?People usually become sick with Legionnaires’ disease after coming into contact with a water supply that is contaminated. Legionella bacteria can be found in natural environments such as streams, rivers, and lakes. The bacteria in these environments do not pose a significant risk, so people do not usually suffer any harm when coming into contact with them.
When legionella bacteria is found in man-made structures, it poses a much greater risk. The water in these structures can become stagnant and stale. A film can develop on stagnant water, creating ideal conditions for bacteria to grow. The water is then considered contaminated, and if people drink or inhale water droplets, they may start to exhibit symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease.
There are many different structures that can contain water contaminated with the legionella bacteria. The most common of these are as follows:
- Shower heads
- Sink faucets
- Water tanks
- Water heaters
- Humidifiers
- Hot tubs
- Large plumbing systems
- Produce misters in grocery stores
- Fountains, artificial waterfalls, and other man-made water features
- Cooling towers
It is not always easy to determine where a person contracted Legionnaires’ disease. If you have become sick, it is important to speak to a Carlsbad Legionnaires’ disease attorney as soon as possible.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ DiseaseAgain, not everyone who comes into contact with the legionella bacteria will become sick. The majority of those who do will even make a full recovery. Still, like most conditions, Legionnaires’ disease is easier to treat when it is diagnosed in its early stages. Additionally, those who become sick may have to miss work while incurring costly medical bills. For these reasons, it is important to understand the common symptoms of the disease. These include:
- Cough
- Chest pains
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle and joint pain
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chills
- High fever
- Loss of appetite
- Extreme fatigue
- Diarrhea
The symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease range from mild to the most severe. A Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Carlsbad at Brod Law Firm can determine how you contracted the illness and who is liable so you receive the maximum damages that are rightfully yours. Call us now at (800) 427-7020 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case evaluation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help with your case.