Connecticut - Legionella Prevention and Costs of Legionnaires Outbreaks
Historical Headlines Related to Legionella
September 14, 2022
Health officials stressed there is no health emergency at Gardner Heights Health Care Center after Legionella was detected in the water. Naugatuck Valley Health District Director Jess Kristy confirmed on Wednesday that there are no human cases at the center and it is her understanding that there is “not a public health threat at this time.” Kristy said Legionella bacteria was found during routine water sampling but was well under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention threshold. (Source)
August 18, 2022
Until test results come back, residents of Stonebrook Village in Windsor Locks are using bottled water for drinking, rather than their faucets until it's determined if the bacteria is eliminated. The senior living community director has taken steps to protect residents and employees by hyper chlorinating the water system and then re-sampling it. In the meantime, residents are able to use their dishwashers and bathrooms that have been fitted with shower heads. (Source)
August 5, 2022
After the discovery of bacteria in its water system that can cause a serious respiratory illness, state and local health officials have been working with a Windsor Locks senior living community. Testing revealed the presence of the bacteria that causes Legionnaires' Disease in the facility's hot water according to a July 14 letter from Stonebrook Village to its residents and families. Special filters have been installed so seniors can still use showers and measures have been taken to provide other drinking water to residents. (Source)
Reported Settlements and Jury Awards
Given the incidence of legionella in Connecticut, 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
Connecticut 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 Connecticut – 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
