Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, OH, has reported that there have been at least two confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease among its patients in the span of six weeks. The exact source of these infections has not been identified, and testing is underway to determine how they may have gotten sick. Health officials have been coordinating with hospital staff to implement measures to reduce the risk of any further infections, although there is no evidence that the water in the hospital is unsafe at present.
Two Legionnaires’ Disease Cases Identified at Cincinnati Hospital
Two patients at Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, OH have been confirmed to have Legionnaires’ disease, a type of flu-like illness caused by exposure to contaminated water sources. As a result, health officials from the Cincinnati Health Department, Hamilton County Public Health and the Ohio Department of Health have begun working to test the water at the hospital to determine any potential sources of infection. Emergency measures have also been implemented to protect patients from possible infection, including installing water filters on all showers and faucets to limit the risk of exposure to waterborne pathogens.
Source of Infection Yet to Be Identified
At this moment, no specific source of infection has yet been identified, although testing throughout the facility is ongoing. This has led to concerns from staff and health officials because it is not even clear if the two patients with Legionnaires’ disease were infected at the hospital, or if there is some external source or sources that infected them. Until a source has been identified and addressed, the hospital will be continuing its emergency measures to protect patients.
Potential Signs of Legionnaires’ Disease
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of respiratory illness that is often mistaken for other types of pneumonia, due to its flu-like symptoms. It can cause fever, coughing, shortness of breath, headaches, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting. Only laboratory testing can verify if a patient has been infected with Legionnaires’ disease or some other illness.
What You Should Do
If you or someone you love has gotten ill after spending time in or around Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, you should first seek medical attention and get tested for Legionnaires’ disease. After that, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling Legionnaires’ cases. They can help you review your legal options and ensure you get the best possible outcome for your situation.
If you or someone you know has been sickened or injured as the result of someone else’s negligence, contact the New York personal injury lawyers at the Katter Law Firm. We will help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation, contact us at 212-809-4293, or visit our contact page.