Fatal Case of Legionnaires' Disease Linked to New Hampshire Resort Stay
A recent stay at the Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa in Whitefield, New Hampshire, has been linked to two cases of Legionnaires' disease, including one fatality. The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services issued an alert, confirming that two out-of-state guests, one from Rhode Island and the other from Massachusetts, fell ill after their stay at the resort.
While the specific source of the Legionella bacteria exposure remains under investigation, the resort has indicated its commitment to guest safety. A statement on the resort's Facebook page emphasized ongoing efforts to identify the potential source of the infection, noting that they are "fiercely committed to the well-being" of their guests and employees. They are also working closely with the New Hampshire Division of Public Health Services and Department of Environmental Services.
Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, can develop after inhaling contaminated water droplets. Common sources include hot tubs, industrial air conditioning systems, and drinking water systems. Symptoms typically appear two to 14 days after exposure and can include headache, muscle aches, shortness of breath, cough, fever, and in some cases, diarrhea, nausea, and confusion. The disease can be severe enough to require hospitalization and can be fatal.
New Hampshire health officials have not disclosed detailed information about the two cases. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that Legionnaires' disease typically affects adults over 50, particularly those with risk factors such as smoking, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, or immunocompromising conditions.
In contrast to Legionnaires' disease, Pontiac fever, also caused by Legionella bacteria, is a milder infection characterized primarily by fever and muscle aches, without pneumonia.
The CDC advises anyone who develops pneumonia-like symptoms to seek medical attention promptly, especially if they have recently used a hot tub, traveled, or stayed in a hospital, and to inform their healthcare provider of potential exposure to Legionella bacteria.