Chicago Lawyer Joseph Klest Protects Victims of Legionnaires' Disease

SCHAUMBURG, IL, September 01, 2012

The J.W. Marriott hotel in downtown Chicago has been confirmed as the source of a recent outbreak of Legionnaires' disease. So far, eight people have been sickened, two of whom have died.

An investigation into the outbreak shows that the infections occurred between July 16 and August 15, 2012. An estimated 8,500 people stayed at the hotel during that time, meaning that the full extent of the outbreak may not yet be known. The Chicago Department of Public Health has set up a hotline for people who think they may have contracted the disease; as of the morning of August 28, approximately 100 people had called to report symptoms or ask questions.

Legionnaire's disease is a bacterial infection of the lungs that is very similar in effect to severe pneumonia. Symptoms can include headache, muscle pain, fever, severe cough, difficulty breathing and gastrointestinal problems. In severe cases, the bacteria can spread and infect other vital organs, including the heart.

Legionnaire's disease is not spread by person-to-person contact. Rather, it is contracted after a person inhales aerosolized legionella bacteria. In many cases, people become infected after inhaling the mist emanating from a contaminated water source. With regard to the outbreak at the J.W. Marriott hotel, investigators believe a contaminated air conditioning system or improper pool and spa maintenance is to blame.

Individuals who contract Legionnaires' disease from unclean or improperly maintained facilities have a right to seek financial damages for the harm that has been done to them. Victims are advised to contact a Chicago personal injury attorney who can help them understand their rights and options.

About Klest Injury Law Firm

For 30 years, attorney Joseph Klest has fought tirelessly to protect the rights of people injured by the negligence of another. He knows how to navigate the complex web of insurance companies and corporate defendants and is not afraid to take his clients' cases to trial if that is what it takes to recover full and fair compensation. Joseph Klest is a dedicated advocate for the victims of Legionnaires' disease outbreaks.

For more information about the Klest Injury Law Firm or the rights of victims of Legionnaire's disease outbreaks, please visit the firm's website at www.chicagotriallaw.com. If you or a family member has contracted Legionnaire's disease, call the firm at 866-264-7639 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer.