22 de ago. de 2012

Source of Legionnaires disease at JW Marriott identified

CHICAGO (FOX Chicago News) -



The JW Marriott on Adams Street in downtown Chicago had to work quickly to stop the potential source of Legionnaire's disease.

"They shut the pools down, because I work out, so everything is kinda shutting down down there...but I'm not overly concerned personally," current guest, Kenneth Justice said.

Legionnaire's disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling contaminated water vapor. 

"It's not always the easiest disease to diagnose and doctors may not have it at the top of their list, so taking this information back to their health care provider…that's important for them," Dr. Kathy Ritger, Medical Director over communicable disease at the Chicago Department of Public Health.

The hotel is asking 8,500 of its former guests that stayed from July 16th through August 15th to be aware of the disease. 

Guests staying at the hotel tonight say they have also been told about the issue.

"I think they took some extra precaution and were diligent in their response," guest Kevin Irving said.

The hotel released this statement after being contacted by the health department: On their advice, the hotel drained and closed the fountain, hot tub and pool. Currently, CDPH believes there is no health risk to guests or employees staying at the hotel. 

"Important thing to know is that most people who are exposed to it, don't get sick. It's just, some of these people with these risk factors are more susceptible," Dr. Ritger added.


Read more: http://www.myfoxchicago.com/story/19333270/3-guests-contract-legionnaires#ixzz24Jo4OMYP

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