At least four residents of Parkchester North Condominiums have contracted Legionnaires’ disease, a severe, often fatal form of pneumonia people get when they inhale water vapor that is contaminated with Legionella bacteria. The New York City health department has confirmed that Legionella growing in the building’s hot water system is the source of the outbreak.
Do You Need a Legionnaires’ Disease Lawyer?
Parkchester North Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak
- In July, two residents at 1576 Unionport Road were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease
- In August, two cases were confirmed at 22 and 28 Metropolitan Oval
After health officials identified Legionella bacteria in the condominium complex’s hot water system as the source of the outbreak, Parkchester management said it would work to fix the problem, cautioning that the repairs could take months, according to local media reports.
Residents should seek immediate medical care if they develop symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is not from person to person. You can only get sick from breathing in contaminated water vapor. Symptoms typically start 2–14 days after exposure and often include:
- High fever and chills
- Cough and shortness of breath
- Headache, muscle aches, fatigue
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea) in some patients
Older adults (50+), smokers, and people with chronic lung disease or weakened immunity are at higher risk of severe illness. Early treatment improves outcomes.
How We Investigate (and Win) Legionnaires’ Cases
Our Legionnaires’ team conducts a three‑pronged investigation:
- Epidemiology: We interview clients and review health department data to determine likely exposure windows and common locations among patients.
- Environmental: We coordinate independent sampling, obtain and review records pertaining to chlorine residuals, temperature logs, filter changes, disinfection events, and biocides.
- Laboratory: When possible, we match a patient’s Legionella isolate to environmental samples using genetic “fingerprinting.”
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 have won significant settlements for victims and families, including cases involving contaminated cooling towers and plumbing.
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.