A Legionnaires’ disease outbreak at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, MA, has resulted in seven illnesses and one death. Legionnaires’ disease is a severe, often fatal, form of pneumonia that people get when they breathe in water vapor contaminated with Legionella bacteria. Common sources include air conditioning systems, fountains, hot tubs, faucets, and showerheads.
People with underlying medical conditions and weakened immune systems are most vulnerable. That’s why hospitals and other health care facilities are required to treat their water systems for Legionella and other waterborne bacteria.
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Berkshire Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak
Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield is operated by Berkshire Health Systems. The illnesses occurred at the hospital between May 2025 and August 2025. In a statement to the Berkshire Eagle, the hospital said it regularly sends water samples to a third-party vendor and that after the illnesses were reported, tests showed a slight increase in Legionella but that it was still in the acceptable range. However, there is no known safe level of Legionella, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Dr. James Lederer, chief medical officer for Berkshire Health Systems, told the Eagle that if a Massachusetts testing center detects Legionella in a hospital setting, it must report that result to the state Department of Public Health. The test results and reports of illness prompted the hospital to flush its plumbing system, put filters on showers, and provide bottled water to patients and staff.
What Are the Symptoms of Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease symptoms usually appear within two to 14 days after exposure. They include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Muscle aches and fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Confusion
Pritzker Hageman has a Proven Track Record with Legionnaires’ Cases
Pritzker Hageman is one of the few law firms in the country with experience handling Legionnaires’ disease claims. We actively investigate outbreaks nationwide and have won significant settlements for victims and families, including cases involving health care facilities.
Our Legionnaires’ disease attorneys represent clients with Legionnaires’ disease and families who have suffered the wrongful death of a loved one. To request a free consultation with our experienced Legionnaires’ Team, call us at 1-888-377-8900 (toll-free), text 612-261-0856, or use the form below.