YWCA Evanston/North Shore Reopens After Legionnaires’ Disease Scare

Outbreak Summary:

• Location: YWCA Evanston/North Shore, Evanston, IL
  
• Outbreak Period: October 2024
  
• Confirmed Cases: 2
  
• Exposure Source: Building’s hot water system
  
• Status: Facility Reopened October 17, 2024

In October 2024, the YWCA Evanston/North Shore temporarily closed after two people were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease, a severe lung infection caused by Legionella bacteria in the hot water system.

Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) officials quickly traced the source to the hot water infrastructure, containing the issue before it could spread.

YWCA in Evanston Outbreak Overview

The YWCA in Evanston is more than a building; it’s a community hub for empowerment and support. So when it had to shut down on October 10, concerns grew quickly.

Tests found Legionella bacteria in the hot water system feeding sinks and showers. Thankfully, the pools, toilets, and water fountains that use separate systems remained safe.

While Legionnaires’ disease isn’t contagious, it’s a serious illness, especially for older adults and those with weakened immune systems, spreading through inhaled water vapor.

Health and Safety Response

In coordination with IDPH, YWCA leadership implemented a series of aggressive remediation measures to ensure the facility could safely reopen. These included:

• Installation of .2-micron filters on all faucets and showers. These filters are CDC-recommended and offer a 99.99999% bacteria kill rate.
  
• Temporary increase in water temperature from 140°F to 150°F to kill any remaining bacteria in the hot water tank, followed by a return to 140°F, which inhibits further Legionella growth.
  
• Enhanced chlorination of the pool for a three-month period to strengthen water purification safeguards.
  
• Closure of water fountains until further clearance from a water treatment consultant. In the interim, water coolers are available in the building’s lobby and kitchen.

As of October 17, 2024, the YWCA officially reopened to the public. Programming resumed as scheduled, and all core amenities, including sinks, showers, toilets, and pools, were declared safe to use.

Commitment to Long-Term Safety

The YWCA’s mission has always been about care, and this situation is no different. Officials are now partnering with a water treatment consultant to create a long-term water safety and maintenance plan.

Know Your Rights

If you or someone you care about developed Legionnaires’ disease after being at the YWCA Evanston/North Shore during this time, you may have legal options. Understanding your rights around environmental exposure is essential.

Contact Us

If you’ve been affected by this incident, seek medical evaluation promptly. Then, consider speaking with an attorney who can help investigate the source of exposure and advise on possible claims related to medical costs, lost wages, or other damages.