Missouri: Two Legionnaires' disease cases linked to Super 8 in St. Clair
Missouri health officials are advising recent hotel guests of a potential health concern for individuals that may have been in contact with a water source within the Super 8 in St. Clair, Missouri. The hotel is located at 1010 South Outer Road in St. Clair.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has determined that two unassociated individuals who stayed at the St. Clair hotel in April of this year were diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease within 14 days after their stay.
DHSS conducted a facility assessment and collected samples at the facility. Preliminary sample results indicate the presence of Legionella bacteria in the water system. DHSS is actively working with the Super 8 to mediate and correct the facility’s water system to help prevent additional people from becoming sick.
The hotel has notified all guests booked by the facility; however, most bookings are placed by third-party booking sites. The facility is unable to contact guests who booked with these entities.
While it has not been confirmed that the Super 8’s water system was the source of the bacteria, the facility has been fully cooperative with DHSS. DHSS will continue to work with Super 8 and take proactive measures to minimize future risks and develop a water management plan to ensure protection of the health of guests and employees.
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia that is caused by the bacteria Legionella, which grows in warm water. Most cases of Legionnaires’ disease can be traced to plumbing systems where conditions are favorable for Legionella growth, such as cooling towers, whirlpool spas, hot tubs, humidifiers, hot water tanks, and evaporative condensers of large air-conditioning systems.
Individuals may be infected by breathing in water vapor containing Legionella, and the disease is not transmitted from person to person. Individuals at higher risk include those ages 50 and above, cigarette smokers, and people with chronic lung disease or compromised immune systems.
Symptoms resemble other types of pneumonia and can include fever, chills, muscle aches, and cough.
Symptoms usually begin 2 to 10 days after being exposed to the bacteria, but it can take longer so people should watch for symptoms for about 2 weeks after exposure. If you develop symptoms of pneumonia within two weeks of staying, working at or visiting the Super 8 in St. Clair, seek medical attention right away.