Legionnaires’ Disease Confirmed at a West Allis Senior Center
Jeffrey A. Pitman · July 22, 2024
Jeffrey A. Pitman
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Last week, health officials confirmed a positive case of Legionnaires’ Disease in West Allis, Milwaukee.
The Southwest Suburban Health Department (SWSHD) discovered the bacteria in a cooling system at the Noble Senior Living Facility. After confirming their findings, the SWSHD notified the public.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by a specific bacteria. This bacteria typically thrives in warm, stagnant water and can be found in various man-made water systems. Examples include air conditioning units, cooling towers and large plumbing systems. People contract the disease by inhaling small droplets of water containing the bacteria. It is not spread through person-to-person contact.
Doctors typically treat this disease with antibiotics. Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease usually appear 2-10 days after exposure. It is more dangerous for certain vulnerable populations, especially:
Elderly nursing home residents
Smokers
Those suffering from chronic lung diseases
Individuals with weakened immune systems
Are People in the Community at Risk for Contracting Legionnaires’ Disease?
According to a Milwaukee news article, the SWSHD says they do not have concerns about a widespread health risk to the community. However, they do advise those living within a one-mile radius of the facility to watch for symptoms, which include:
Headaches
Fatigue
Muscle aches and pains
Coughing
High fever
Loss of appetite
Chest pain
Gastrointestinal issues
Residents who experience these symptoms should seek medical attention right away. You can follow the ongoing story by visiting the West Allis Health Department’s website.
Is it Possible to Prevent Legionnaires’ Disease?
Properly cleaning and maintaining water and cooling systems can help to prevent or at least minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
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This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by attorney Jeffery A. Pitman, who has more than 28 years of legal experience and handled thousands of personal injury cases while obtaining millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements in Wisconsin.
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