Chicago Legionnaires' Disease Attorneys

Lawyers for Injuries From Legionella Infections in Arlington Heights

Legionnaires' disease is a lung infection that is similar to pneumonia. It can occur when a person inhales water droplets containing legionella bacteria, and in some cases, it is associated with food poisoning. This disease affects thousands of people in the United States each year, and around 10% of people die after contracting this type of infection.

At Newland & Newland, LLP, our personal injury attorneys provide experienced representation for victims of food poisoning and other infectious diseases. We have secured millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. If you have contracted a disease due to the negligence of a company or organization, we are prepared to help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

Symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease

A person who contracts Legionnaires' disease will usually experience severe inflammation of the lungs. Symptoms typically develop within 2 to 10 days after being infected, and they may include:

• Coughing, which may bring up mucus or blood
• Shortness of breath and chest pains
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Fever reaching up to 107 degrees
• Muscle aches
• Confusion, memory loss, or hallucinations

There are a variety of other complications that may affect a person who contracts Legionnaires' disease, including respiratory failure, kidney failure, and sepsis. Due to the serious nature of Legionnaire's disease, hospitalization is often required. Treatment will usually include the administration of antibiotics, and a person may also require breathing treatments to ensure they are able to get enough oxygen.

Causes of Legionnaires' Disease

Legionella bacteria grow in water and soil, and a person can contract Legionnaires' disease if they inhale or aspirate these bacteria into their lungs. In some cases, this occurs when water droplets containing legionella are released into the air by water-cooled air conditioners in large buildings or through showers or fountains which use a contaminated water supply.

In regards to food and food poisoning, legionella may be released through the misting systems used in the vegetable sections of grocery stores. A person could then inhale the bacteria when washing or eating these vegetables. It is also possible for a person to contract Legionnaires' disease through pureed food that is aspirated into the lungs. Seniors in nursing homes are especially susceptible to this type of infection.

Certain factors increase the risk that a person will experience serious or life-threatening symptoms after contracting Legionnaires' disease. These risk factors include:

• Smoking
• Being over 50 years old
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Organ transplants
• Chronic lung disease, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or emphysema
• Chronic kidney disease
• A weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, viral infections, or use of medications such as corticosteroids

Contact an Illinois Bacterial Infection Lawyer

A person may contract Legionnaires' disease because a grocery store, building owner, cruise ship, or other establishment did not take the proper measures to prevent contamination of a water supply. The effects of this condition can be severe and life-threatening, and victims and their families should be sure to understand their options for pursuing compensation from the company or organization that was responsible for the infection. At Newland & Newland, LLP, we are ready to fight for you and help you address the harm done to you and your family. Taking legal action against the negligent parties will also help ensure that others are protected from harm due to this type of disease. To schedule a free phone consultation and learn more about how we can help with your case, contact us at 312-981-0409. We represent clients in the Chicago suburbs and throughout the state of Illinois.