Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has vowed to rebuild the Veterans Home in Quincy, IL following a deadly, four-year-long Legionnaires disease outbreak that began in 2015. He also told WBEZ this week that families who suffered the wrongful death of a loved one in these outbreaks deserve compensation because their deaths were entirely avoidable. At least 12 of the 15 families who lost a loved have elected to file a Legionnaires’ disease lawsuit.
At least 50 veterans were sickened in the Legionnaires’ outbreaks at the Quincy veterans’ home that began in 2015. Gov. Pritzker visited the facility this week promising to begin construction on its $245 million replacement by the end of this year.
Legionella Bacteria and Legionnaires’ Disease
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia that people get when they inhale water mist that is contaminated with Legionella bacteria. It is not transmitted through person-to-person contact.
Legionella occurs in nature but grows best in warm water, especially the complicated water systems found in large commercial buildings, cruise ships and health care settings.
“What makes these VA outbreaks so tragic is that Legionnaires’ disease is a preventable illness,” said Fred Pritzker, a Legionnaires’ disease lawyer whose firm Pritzker Hageman represents clients nationwide. This outbreak, he said, is a tragic example of how often legionellosis outbreaks strike VA homes where aging water systems are poorly maintained.
Experienced Legionnaires’ Disease Attorneys
If you or a loved one got Legionnaires’ disease from a VA Medical Center or nursing home, contact Fred Pritzker and the Pritzker Hageman Legionnaires’ Disease Team for a complimentary evaluation of your case. Use the form below or call them at 1(888) 377-8900 (toll-free). There is no obligation.