The
Health Protection Agency has reported nine cases of Legionnaires’ disease in English holiday makers thought to be associated with the Diamante Beach Hotel in Calpe, Costa Blanca since January 2012. Three British holiday-makers are reported to have died from the disease.
The Spanish health authorities have assessed the hotel, and the relevant tour operator has also carried out investigations at the hotel where the water system is thought to be the most likely source of the infection. The tour companies suspended bookings at the hotel while investigations are being carried out.
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a potentially fatal lung infection (pneumonia) that is caused by the legionella bacteria. It is caught by breathing in small droplets of contaminated water. It is not contagious and cannot be spread directly from person to person. Symptoms include a high fever and muscle pain, and as the infection infects the lungs a persistent cough can develop. Prompt treatment using antibiotics is essential to reduce the risk of death.
Legionella bacteria is often found in sources of water, including artificial water supply systems such as air conditioning systems, hot and cold water services and cooling towers. In the right conditions legionella bacteria spreads rapidly. Large buildings, such as hotels, hospitals, museums and office blocks, are more vulnerable to legionella contamination because they have larger, more complex water supply systems in which legionella contamination can quickly spread. In 2009, there were 345 reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease in England and Wales of which 163 cases occurred while the affected person was travelling, either abroad or in the UK.
Legionnaire’s disease can be very serious, particularly in vulnerable people, such as the elderly or people with pre-existing health conditions. In 2009, there were 43 deaths from Legionnaires’ disease in England and Wales.
Leigh Day and Legionnaires’ disease claims
Leigh Day holiday and travel claims specialist
Sally Moore successfully settled a claim for a client who contracted Legionnaires’ disease while staying in an apartment leased by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office where she contracted the disease. She needed treatment for partial kidney failure and required extensive physiotherapy and occupational therapy, including instruction on re-learning walking and talking skills.
To speak to one of our specialist personal injury lawyers about a possible claims for compensation relating to Legionnaires’ disease please contact partner
Sally Moore for a free and confidential initial consultation on
020 7650 1200.