The fourth case of Legionnaires’ disease has been confirmed by the Hawaii Department of Health (DOH).
A guest reported symptoms while staying at The Grand Islander by Hilton Grand Vacations in Waikiki, according to a press release from the DOH.
“Legionnaires’ disease can potentially have severe consequences, and we encourage anyone who developed symptoms following a stay at the Grand Islander to contact a physician and DOH,” Dr. Sarah Kemble, state epidemiologist, said in the press release. “We are encouraged that the Hilton has brought in additional experts and is stepping up efforts to pinpoint potential sources of contamination and treat water sources as a precautionary measure.”
The first case of Legionnaires’ disease was identified last June; a subsequent case was diagnosed in March and the third case was identified in early April, the press release noted.
Legionnaires’ disease causes pneumonia after exposure to Legionella bacteria. It can be treated with antibiotics; symptoms begin within two to 14 days of exposure, according to the press release. The disease cannot spread between people. Symptoms involve coughing, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headaches.
Legionella bacteria are typically found in freshwater surroundings and can multiply within “water systems such as showerheads and sink faucets, cooling towers, hot tubs, and large plumbing systems,” the press release said.