Legionnaires’ Disease Linked to Hannibal Best Western

It has been confirmed that the recent testing and closure of the Best Western on the River hotel in downtown Hannibal, MO was prompted by at least three cases of Legionnaires’ disease. Of the three people who stayed at the hotel and contracted the dangerous illness, one has died.

Last week, on November 10, 2015, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (M-DHSS) reported that the Centers for Disease Control had taken 40 water samples from the hotel for Legionella testing. On Friday, November 20^th, Hannibal’s public health agency and MDHSS officials alerted hotel management to the presence of the potentially fatal Legionella pneumonia bacteria in four (4) of its 79 guest rooms. The hotel voluntarily closed the affected wing immediately.

Initially, M-DHSS and Marion County Health Department officials refused to speculate on whether they were witnessing a new outbreak. Hannibal’s Emergency Management Director, John Hark, told WGEM News reporters that he only learned of the hotel closure on Tuesday, November 24^th, through social media.

M-DHSS now reveals that Hannibal’s Best Western on the River was the common link in three confirmed LD cases. All three victims stayed at the hotel at different points over the last eight months. Although the person who died contracted Legionnaires’ disease (legionellosis), it has not yet been confirmed that Legionnaires’ disease was the actual cause of death.

Can You Sue the Best Western Hotel for Legionnaires’ Disease?

If you contracted Legionnaires’ disease (LD) or a family member died from it, you will have to consult a lawyer to find out if you have the right to sue for compensation. A lawsuit can seek compensation for pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost income and other damages.

Recent cases of hotel-acquired Legionnaires’ disease include:

• • Opera House Hotel in the South Bronx, New York City;
  • SpringHill Suites by Marriott in Altamonte, Florida;
  • Super 8 in Lacey, Washington.

If you or a loved one developed the signs and symptoms of severe pneumonia within 14 days (LD incubation period) of staying at Hannibal’s Best Western or another hotel, you may have the right to file a lawsuit seeking compensation.