Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak Confirmed at Eau Claire Care Facility

Quick Outbreak Details:

• Outbreak Period: Within past 3 months (as of July 2023)
  
• Confirmed Cases: 2
  
• Deaths: 0
  
• Exposure Source: Under investigation (suspected facility water system)

In mid-2023, health officials confirmed two cases of Legionnaires’ disease at a senior care facility in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The Eau Claire City-County Health Department is working closely with the facility to pinpoint the source of the outbreak and keep residents safe.

Eau Claire Care Facility Overview 

Imagine moving into a place meant to bring comfort and care, only to learn that a potentially deadly bacteria may be lurking in the water.

Within a span of just three months, two residents were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease, a serious lung infection triggered by inhaling tiny water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria.

These bacteria tend to thrive in warm, stagnant water, such as what you might find in water heaters or outdated plumbing systems.

According to Jackie Krumenauer, Communicable Disease Manager, those over 50, people with chronic lung conditions, smokers, and the immunocompromised are especially vulnerable.

Health Department and Facility Response

While there’s no current risk to the general public, the outbreak is taken very seriously due to the high-risk population involved.

Health officials are:

• Working directly with the care facility
  
• Running environmental tests
  
• Flushing the water system
  
• Potentially installing point-of-use filters where necessary

So far, there have been no deaths, but the response remains urgent. Early detection and swift action are critical, especially in environments that care for older adults.

Legal and Health Considerations

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease and resided in or visited an Eau Claire care facility during the past several months, you may be entitled to compensation. Legal action can help determine the source of the outbreak and hold responsible parties accountable if negligence played a role.

Those affected may be able to seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses
  
• Pain and suffering
  
• Lost income or caregiving expenses
  
• Long-term health consequences

Contact Us

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of pneumonia—such as cough, fever, shortness of breath—and was recently at a care facility in Eau Claire, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is essential and can prevent serious complications.

For those seeking legal guidance, our team is available to evaluate your situation and help determine the best course of action.