Missouri - Legionella Prevention and Costs of Legionnaires Outbreaks
Historical Headlines Related to Legionella
August 30, 2024
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) announced that three people at a resort in Cassville, Missouri were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease. The DHSS said the cases involved guests who had been in contact with a water source at an area lodge and RV park. Three individuals allegedly had no association with each other and were diagnosed within 14 days of their stay at the resort. After the three cases were confirmed, DHSS conducted a facility assessment and collected samples. The preliminary results revealed the Legionella bacteria in the water. (Source)
June 6, 2024
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is warning recent guests of a hotel about the potential of Legionnaires' disease. The potential health concern is for individuals who may have been in contact with a water source within the hotel, according to a news release from the health department. DHSS determined two unassociated individuals who stayed at the hotel in April of 2024 were diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease within 14 days after their stay. (Source)
June 17, 2022
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services is investigating four cases of Legionnaires’ disease connected to Phelps Health, a hospital in Rolla. The health department said it is working with the hospital to investigate the source of the bacteria that can cause Legionnaires’ disease and working on a solution. (Source)
2021
Legionnaires’ disease continues to make headlines today. In April of 2021, two people were diagnosed with the severe form of pneumonia after using the hot tub or the pool late last month while staying at a Comfort Inn & Suites in Macon. Reports indicated that testing of the hot tub indicated the presence of Legionella bacteria.
Reported Settlements and Jury Awards
Given the incidence of legionella in Missouri, 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
Missouri 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 Missouri – 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
