Memphis Attorney Explains Legionnaires’ Disease Lawsuits

Legionnaires’ disease is a bacterial disease that is usually found in or around water.  The bacteria is called Legionella and it thrives in warm water.  The bacteria can cause catastrophic injuries and even death if not properly and timely treated.  Often Legionnaires’ disease will develop in buildings that contain complex water systems such as hotels, cruise ships, hospitals, and even fitness centers.  For instance, the bacteria can be found in:

• Indoor pools
• Hut tubs
• Steam rooms
• Fountains
• Hot water tanks
• Large plumbing systems

How does Legionnaires’ Disease Spread?

The disease is not transferred from person to person.  Rather, people contract the disease by breathing in the mist or vapor that contains the bacteria.  For example, a person might breathe in vapors while sitting in a steam room or in a hot tub.

The disease develops and spreads when water systems are not properly maintained.  Accordinly, it is crucial for companies that operate pools, spas, and hot tubs to maintain the correct PH levels and treat the water with appropriate levels of chlorine or other chemicals.  When a company fails to properly control the bacteria, people can become seriously injured and even die.  This is when an experienced Tennessee personal injury attorney can help.

Signs and Symptoms of Legionnaires’ Disease

The signs and symptoms associated with Legionnaires’ Disease are very similar to other forms of pneumonia. This makes the disease difficult to diagnose at times.  Many of the common signs and symptoms are as follows:

• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Fever
• Muscle ache

Treatment Options and Potential Effects

Legionnaires’ Disease is treated with antibiotics which are designed to kill the bacteria.  Fortunately, most cases of Legionnaires’ Disease can be treated successfully and the patient will not have any long term effects.  However, patients who are elderly, who have underlying health problems, or whose treatment is delayed my have complications, including respiratory failure, sepsis, and death.

An Experienced Attorney Can Help

Our Tennessee Legionnaires’ disease attorneys know how to effectively pursue your claim.  We are compassionate and committed to helping all our clients recover full compensation.  Bailey & Greer has a proven track record of compassionately representing our clients injured in Tennessee personal injury cases.  You can see for yourself in our testimonials page and our successful case results.  Please contact us today to receive your free case evaluation by dialing 901-680-9777.