New Legionnaires's Disease Outbreaks Confirmed in Midwest

Several new cases of Legionnaires’ disease were diagnosed in cases across the United States, with the most recent instances found in Illinois and Wisconsin.

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe and sometimes deadly form of pneumonia — or lung inflammation —mainly caused by airborne bacteria found in large facilities such as nursing homes, hotels, and hospitals with poorly-maintained water systems. Legionella enters the body when contaminated water vapor is breathed into the lungs.

An outbreak of Legionnaires disease occurred at the Glenwood Nursing Home in Alabama in October 2013. Fourteen cases were reported, and one victim died from the illness. The Glenwood facility remained open and operational and performed recommended remediation steps. As of October 18, no water vapor generating sources were identified at the facility. An outbreak in Allentown, PA confirmed six cases during the same month.

Most recently, two Illinois residents contracted the disease at an LA Fitness gym in a Chicago suburb, where bacteria were found in the hot tub.

A Milwaukee outbreak includes nine confirmed Legionnaires’ disease cases and five people have been hospitalized. This outbreak, which began in November, brings Milwaukee County’s count of Legionnaires’ disease cases up to 74 since June 1, 2013.

Nursing home quality and costs vary greatly. Seniors and fail should investigate nursing homes in their area prior to the need arising. Nursing homes are often an extension of a hospital stay for rehabilitation services and decisions may need to be made quickly.

Nursing home costs range from $100 to $400 or more per day.  You may review the daily costs of nursing homes nationwide in Caregiverlist's Nursing Home Directory to plan ahead for your senior care needs.