Legionnaires’ disease cluster among residents of a Will County nursing home and rehabilitation center
The Illinois Department of Public Health, in partnership with the Will County Health Department, is investigating two cases of Legionnaires’ disease among residents of the Lakewood Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Center in Plainfield, Illinois.
Both cases started experiencing symptoms in January 2020.
Individuals at risk for illness include residents, staff, and visitors to the facility.
Public health officials conducted a full investigation, including an environmental assessment and water sampling. Water restrictions were implemented and control measures recommended. The facility notified staff, residents, and families. Health care professionals are looking retrospectively and prospectively to identify additional cases. To date, no additional cases has been identified.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused when a person inhales legionella bacteria into their lungs, typically through mist or vapor from a water source contaminated with the bacteria. http://www.dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/diseases-and-conditions/diseases-a-z-list/legionellosis
News release - https://willcountyhealth.org/health-department-investigating-two-confirmed-cases-of-legionnaires-disease-at-plainfield-senior-home