As Legionnaires’ disease, a form of atypical pneumonia often caused by inhaling or aspirating small droplets of water contaminated with legionella bacteria, sees an unexpected rise in New Jersey, it might be helpful to recall a similar historical incident. Back in the summer of 1976, thousands of World War II veterans and members of the Pennsylvania State American Legion were gathered in Philadelphia for their annual three-day convention and commemorating the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution. A large portion stayed at the downtown Bellevue-Stratford Hotel on Broad Street.
While this event was intended to be purely celebratory, it turned out to be a riddle for medical experts, as hundreds of Legionnaires fell ill with a then-unknown illness. The illness, known today as Legionnaires’ disease, was a significant event that started significant medical investigations. It was identified that the legionella bacteria, found in water, were the cause of this outbreak.
New Jersey seems to be undergoing a similar uptick in cases of Legionnaires’ disease, as suggested in a recent article by JD Supra titled “IT’S BAC(teria)!” NJ faces spike in Legionnaires cases”. Keeping in perspective the seriousness of this disease, any rise in incidence can have severe implications for public health.
As legal professionals, it’s critical to understand the legal implications of such health crises. It is also important for corporations and law firms alike to prepare and implement adequate health and safety measures, such as regular maintenance of water systems, to prevent such an outbreak from occurring. The failure to do so could potentially expose entities to liability.
We’ll continue monitoring this situation to provide any necessary updates on legal repercussions, implications, and advice for corporations and law firms dealing with a potential health crisis such as this.