Oakland Legionnaires’ Disease Lawyer

Legionnaires' disease is a serious type of pneumonia first discovered in 1976 after an outbreak at the American Legion convention in Philadelphia. The condition does not transmit from person to person but is caused by inhaling or consuming water droplets contaminated with the legionella bacteria. Some of the most common sources of contaminated water droplets include supermarket misters, hot tubs, air conditioning units, drinking water systems, and cooling towers. There is currently no vaccine for legionnaires' disease, and symptoms typically start to appear within 10 days. If you have experienced symptoms, our Oakland legionnaires' disease lawyer can provide the legal advice you need.

Most people who are exposed to the legionella bacteria do not suffer any ill effects. Still, some individuals are more susceptible to contracting the disease than others. These include people over the age of 50, heavy smokers and people who used to smoke, individuals who suffer from chronic lung disease, and people with weakened immune systems. Individuals who contract legionnaires' disease may experience a variety of symptoms, including:

• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Confusion, which may become worse over time
• Gastrointestinal issues including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Chills
• Fever
• Coughing

Again, most people who are exposed to legionella will not experience any of the above symptoms. For one in 10 people, though, the condition is fatal. If you start experiencing any symptoms, it is critical that you speak to an Oakland legionnaires' disease attorney as soon as possible.

The healthier a person is when they contract legionnaires' disease, the greater likelihood that they will make a full recovery. Individuals are more likely to suffer from long-term complications due to legionnaires' disease if they are not in good health when they are exposed to the bacteria. Some of the most common long-term complications associated with legionnaires' disease include septic shock, respiratory failure, and acute kidney failure. These complications are life-threatening, and too often, people do not recover from them.

If you have contracted legionnaires' disease as a result of another person's negligence, or carelessness, you may have a right to claim financial compensation. Property owners are responsible for making sure their premises are safe, which includes making sure the water supply does not contain legionella bacteria. When property owners fail to meet this legal obligation, they can be held liable for paying damages for medical bills, lost income, and more.

If you or someone you love has been exposed to the legionella bacteria, a legionnaires' disease lawyer in Oakland at Brod Law Firm can provide the sound legal counsel you need. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or fill out our online form to schedule a free review of your case and to learn more about how we can help you claim the full and fair settlement you are entitled to.