Legionnaires’ Outbreak in Ocoee, FL

Outbreak Dates: Under Investigation (Recent cases reported in 2025)

Confirmed Cases: 1 hospitalization confirmed & 28 people potentially exposed)

Deaths: 0

Exposure Source: Potential link to the Crunch Fitness facility on Silver Star Road in Ocoee.

In Ocoee, Florida, health officials are investigating a potential cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases, a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. The investigation has drawn attention to a local gym facility, prompting water testing and public concern about the source of the exposure.

Ocoee Outbreak Overview

The Orange County Health Department has initiated an investigation into possible Legionnaires’ disease cases in Ocoee, FL. A key focus of the investigation is the Crunch Fitness location on Silver Star Road, a facility that was previously an LA Fitness where health officials investigated three Legionnaires’ cases back in 2017.

Legionnaires’ disease is contracted when a person inhales small water droplets or mist containing the Legionella bacteria. Sources can include air conditioning systems, showers, faucets, and aquatic systems like pools and spas.

Key Details from the Investigation:

• Building History: Notably, the facility faced a similar issue in 2017 while it was LA Fitness, where officials investigated three Legionnaires’ cases tied to gym patrons.
• Hospitalized Individual: At least one Ocoee woman, has been hospitalized and diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. She confirmed she is a member of the Ocoee Crunch Fitness location.
• Facility Response: Crunch Fitness has confirmed it is cooperating with health officials and has, out of an abundance of caution, closed off parts of the gym to conduct thorough water testing of its pool and spa systems through certified third-party specialists. The company noted that it spent over $5 million renovating the facility, including the HVAC and aquatic systems, prior to its 2024 opening.
• Case Count: While one case is confirmed, there has been a report that 28 people may have been exposed in one day.
• Health Department Stance: The Orange County Health Department has stated that it does not comment on ongoing epidemiology investigations.

Despite the ongoing testing, the facility remains open, and the confirmed source of the illness has not yet been determined by health officials.

Public Health Response and Legionella

The Orange County Health Department, in collaboration with other public health agencies, is actively investigating the suspected cluster of Legionnaires’ cases. Legionella bacteria are naturally found in freshwater but become a public health concern when they grow and spread in human-made water systems.

Legionnaires’ disease is not transmitted person-to-person. Symptoms, which typically appear 2 to 10 days after exposure, include shortness of breath, body aches, uncontrolled fever, and pneumonia. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical, as the disease can lead to severe hospitalization or death.

Legal Considerations for Affected Individuals

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease after spending time at a public facility in Ocoee, FL, such as Crunch Fitness, you may have legal grounds to pursue a claim. Property owners and facility operators have a duty to maintain their water systems safely and prevent the growth and spread of Legionella bacteria.

Our specialized attorneys can help:

• Investigate the Exposure Source: We work to determine where and how the Legionella bacteria caused your illness.
• Establish Liability: We identify the responsible parties—which may include the property owners, facility management, or maintenance companies.
• Seek Compensation: We fight to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses you incurred.

Contact Us

If you have experienced symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease or received a diagnosis after visiting a location in Ocoee, FL, particularly the area surrounding the Silver Star Road facility, we strongly recommend seeking medical attention immediately.

Additionally, contacting a legal professional is essential to protect your rights and explore your options for compensation. Time is limited for filing a claim.