Attorney Fred Pritzker and his Bad Bug Law Team are investigating an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease linked to Glenwood Nursing Home in Florence, Alabama. To date, there are 13 confirmed and 10 suspected cases. Of the confirmed cases, 10 are residents of the nursing home and 3 were visitors. One woman has died.
“These outbreaks are preventable with adequate maintenance and testing,” said Fred, who is one of the few lawyers in the United States who has won Legionnaires’ disease personal injury and wrongful death cases against building owners. “What we generally find is that protocol for preventing the growth of Legionella bacteria in water systems has not been followed. Along with this is generally inadequate testing of water for the bacteria, which are a well known risk for nursing homes.”
Legionella bacteria is the pathogen that causes Legionnaires’ disease, a form of pneumonia called Legionella pneumonia. What happens is people breathe in water mist that is contaminated with the bacteria.
Can Victims and Families Sue for Compensation?
Yes, victims of Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks and, in some cases, their families have the right to sue a nursing home for compensation. These facilities are charged with caring for the elderly and others who cannot care for themselves. They have the duty to keep the water systems safe, both for the residents and people who come to visit.
Compensation depends on several factors, and will be somewhat different in wrongful death cases. When elderly people unnecessarily endure painful pneumonia and its complications. In many cases these patients do not fully recover, and their last years are exponentially more difficult than they would have been. When a patient dies, a family loses the love and companionship of a parent and grandparent. The responsible party should be held accountable.
Attorney Fred Pritzker and his team have won millions for Legionnaires’ disease victims and their families. You can contact him for a free consultation here.
