Recently there has been an outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease in the South Bronx area of New York. According to the New York City Department of Health, Legionnaires disease (also known as legionellosis) is a type of pneumonia that is caused by bacteria in warm water. It often comes from the cooling towers that are used by some buildings as part of their air conditioning, ventilation and/or heating systems.
In addition, other types of equipment that draw upon the public water supply, such as: public fountains, whirlpool spas, misting equipment and room air humidifiers can provide sources for the bacteria to spread. The disease is frequently associated with large housing units, hotels, cruse ships and hospitals. Property owners and management companies can be found liable if they didn’t properly maintain the equipment which housed the water source.
The New York Department of Health website has stated that water for drinking, washing and bathing that comes from the tap is currently considered safe for use in the South Bronx and throughout the city. Individuals who are at high risk of contracting the disease include people who are middle-aged or older (particularly cigarette smokers) and people with weakened immune systems or chronic lung disease. The disease can be fatal if it is not treated promptly and effectively. If you work or live in the area and experience respiratory symptoms, such as fever, cough, chills and muscle aches, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Contact the Attorneys at Hill & Moin LLP
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Legionnaires disease we can help. As New York personal injury attorneys with over 40 years of experience, we know how to aggressively pursue your case.
In court, the negligent parties will be represented by attorneys who will try to refute and devalue your case. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side is the single most important thing that you can do to successfully pursue your case.
