What Is Legionnaires' Disease?

What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?

Legionnaires’ Disease is a bacterial infection that causes serious, and potentially life-threatening pneumonia.

It was first identified in 1976 after an outbreak of pneumonia among people who had attended a meeting of the American Legion. Nearly 200 people were struck down, of whom 29 died, and autopsies on the deceased identified a previously unknown strain of bacteria which was subsequently named ‘Legionella’.

The Legionella bacteria is commonly found in small quantities in fresh water sources such as rivers, lakes, ponds and reservoirs, but rarely causes problems within those environments. It becomes dangerous if it is allowed to breed and multiply, which is does best in temperatures between 20 and 45 centigrade – temperatures commonly found in hot water systems, air-conditioning systems’ cooling towers and spa baths, among other places.

Legionnaires’ Disease is most commonly spread by the inhalation of aerosolized water (water vapour) that contains the bacteria – in very rare cases it has been transmitted from contaminated water into an open wound, but almost never from person to person.

The disease can be treated with antibiotics, and most sufferers go on to make a full recovery, but sadly in the elderly, those with reduced immune systems and heavy smokers, the disease can be fatal.

The risk of Legionella bacteria contaminating a water source can be significantly reduced through thorough maintenance and cleanliness procedures, and any outbreak of the disease is always thoroughly investigated. If you contract Legionnaires’ Disease it is likely that the bacteria will have come from a contaminated water source, meaning that someone has not done their job properly, or taken their responsibility seriously, and that is when Mercury Legal can help. We have a great deal of experience in handling cases involving Legionnaires’ Disease and have helped out clients win significant compensation pay-outs as a result of their suffering. It might be that you contracted the disease as a result of your employment, or perhaps while you were on holiday, or even in hospital. No matter how you contracted the disease, once your medical treatment is in place you should contact one of our highly experienced solicitors and let us help you get the compensation you deserve.

Call us now on 0800 122 3130 or click here to start your claim.