Georgia - Legionella Prevention and Costs of Legionnaires Outbreaks
Historical Headlines Related to Legionella
November 9, 2022
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a health advisory about waterborne bacteria in dental plumbing systems after children who visited pediatric dental clinics were infected with nontuberculous Mycobacteria. Dental water can also breed other bacteria, including Legionella if left untreated. (Source)
November 1, 2022
The Georgia Department of Corrections and Georgia Department of Public Health (GDPH) confirmed a dangerous and hard-to-control bacteria was within the water system at Autry State Prison in Mitchell County. In June of 2021, an inmate at the medium-security prison tested positive for Legionnaires Disease. An investigation found that the case did stem from bacteria within the water system at the prison. (Source)
July 9, 2022
In 2019, an Legionnaires’ disease outbreak tied to a prominent Atlanta hotel was the largest recorded Legionella outbreak in Georgia. 11 cases were confirmed, including one death, after stays or visits at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel. (Source)
2022
Legionnaires’ disease continues to make headlines today. In 2019, one person died of Legionnaires and 11 other cases were confirmed after stays or visits at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel. It was the largest recorded Legionella outbreak in Georgia history.
Reported Settlements and Jury Awards
Given the incidence of legionella in Georgia, 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
Michigan 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 – High
Overall Liabliity and Risk for Georgia – Very High
No, ASHRAE 188 is 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
