West Virginia - Legionella Prevention and Costs of Legionnaires Outbreaks
Historical Headlines Related to Legionella
November 2, 2023
Legionella bacteria was found at Cabell Huntington Hospital, and steps were taken in response. The hospital said in a statement: “After a probable case of illness due to Legionella was recently reported, we contacted the Cabell-Huntington Health Department and WV Bureau of Public Health. In coordination with public health officials, we performed environmental assessments according to CDC guidelines. As a result of those assessments, enhanced filtration is being added to sink faucets and shower heads as a preventative measure. The hospital is fully operational while the situation is being addressed”. (Source)
2021
Legionnaires’ disease continues to make headlines today. In April 2021, Legionella bacteria was found in water from two sinks during routine testing at Mildred Mitchell-Bateman Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia.
Reported Settlements and Jury Awards
Given the incidence of legionella in West Virginia, and its associated harm, personal injury claims and litigation are also becoming more frequent. Reported settlements and jury awards are unavailable at this time.
State Cap on Jury Awards
West Virginia does not have a cap on the award amounts allowable by law. In addition, public health notices and negative media attention can also lead to business interruption and reputation damage.
Groundwater Temperature Risk Level – Medium
Overall Liabliity and Risk for Virginia – High
No, ASHRAE 188 is not part of the state code
Legionella and Water Management Plan Assistance
Need help? For Legionella consulting and services, Water Management Plans, Legionella Control Systems, and Legionella testing please contact us at Legionella Control Systems at 888-416-8626 or info@legionellacontrolsystems.com
