MDH: Outbreak Of Legionnaires’ Disease Linked To Hotel

(KNSI) – An outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease has been traced back to a hotel in Albert Lea.

The Minnesota Department of Health says investigators identified two laboratory-confirmed cases among people from unrelated groups at the Ramada by Wyndham Albert Lea and spent time in the pool/hot tub area around the last weekend of June.

The people became ill between late June and early July.

One was hospitalized and has been discharged; one is still hospitalized.

There are reports of additional people with exposure who are experiencing illnesses that might be Legionnaires’ disease.

The MDH warns anyone who stayed at the hotel in late June to seek medical care promptly if they are ill.

The disease is spread by inhaling the fine spray from water sources containing Legionella bacteria.

It is not spread from person to person.

The time between exposure to the bacteria and the onset of symptoms can be up to 14 days.

MDH investigators are working with the hotel to figure out the source of the Legionella bacteria.

At this time, early evidence and experience suggest the source of the infections might be the hotel’s spa (hot tub).

The hotel shut down the spa for maintenance on June 29, and the pool area is closed to guests at this time.

MDH staff is working with hotel staff on recommendations to clean and decontaminate the spa and pool area.

Spas have been found in the past to be the source of Legionnaires’ outbreaks due to their temperature and ability to aerosolize the Legionella bacteria in tiny water droplets.

Symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, chills, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, and coughing.

Most people exposed to Legionella bacteria do not develop Legionnaires’ disease.

People over the age of 50, current or former smokers or those with certain medical conditions including weakened immune systems, chronic lung disease, cancer, diabetes, and kidney or liver disease are at increased risk.

If you have concerns about possible exposure, please get in touch with your health care provider.

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