Napa Legionnaires’ Disease Lawyer
There are many diseases that cause significant pain and that may prevent you from performing even the simplest of daily tasks. Of all of them, Legionnaires’ disease is one of the most severe. Legionnaires’ disease is a very serious type of pneumonia that results in inflammation in the lungs. Legionella bacteria cause Legionnaires’ disease, and symptoms typically start to appear two to 10 days after a person is exposed. Legionnaires’ disease is largely preventable. People often only become sick because another person was negligent or careless. In most cases, it is property owners who are liable for Legionnaires’ disease. Operators of water systems can also be liable if they fail to maintain them properly. Manufacturers can also be held liable if they created a defective product that caused the exposure. Our Napa Legionnaires’ disease lawyer can help you determine who is liable so you can claim the fair settlement you are entitled to.
How are People Exposed to Legionella Bacteria?Natural water sources contain the Legionella bacteria, but in these areas, it does not pose a danger to human health. However, when legionella bacteria develop in artificial water structures, it can put anyone who uses it at risk. Legionella bacteria can develop in any water source that is not properly maintained. Consuming or inhaling the bacteria can cause Legionnaires’ disease. While any water system can develop Legionella bacteria, there are some that are more common than others. These include:
- Public showers, such as those found at swimming pools and gyms
- Hotel room showers
- Water fountains
- Gym equipment
- Hot tubs and whirlpools in hotels
- Produce areas in grocery stores, particularly those that use misters
- Air conditioning units, such as those found in apartment complexes and other large buildings
Aerosolized water droplets are the main cause of Legionnaires’ disease, but Legionella bacteria can also be found in soil. People may sometimes contract Legionnaires’ disease after working in the garden or with potting soil. If you have been exposed, reach out to a Legionnaires’ disease attorney in Napa today.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ DiseaseAfter Legionnaires’ disease has developed, it mainly impacts a person’s lungs and causes them to become inflamed. Legionnaires’ disease can also cause heart problems. Most of the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease are fairly mild to begin with, but they become much worse. In the first few days, a person may experience:
- Cough
- Chills
- Headaches
- Muscle pains
- Fever reaching as high as 104 degrees
As Legionnaires’ disease continues to develop, a person will experience symptoms that are much more serious. These include:
- Coughing, which may produce blood or mucus
- Shortness of breath
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Chest pain
- Diarrhea
- Confusion
If you have experienced any of the above symptoms, particularly after spending time on someone else’s property, it is important to seek medical attention. Legionnaires’ disease is treatable, and it is important to protect your health. Additionally, medical documentation can help prove your case so you obtain full and fair damages.
Call Our Legionnaires’ Disease Attorney in Napa TodayAt Brod Law Firm, our Napa Legionnaires’ disease attorney can help you determine who is liable for your illness and hold them accountable for paying a full settlement. Call us today at (800) 427-7020 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.