1 Dead, 14 Infected In Hampton Beach Legionnaires' Outbreak

HAMPTON, NH — A fatal Hampton Beach Legionnaires' disease outbreak has been traced to hotel and state officials are ordering its owner to take action. The outbreak has killed one and sickened 14 others. The outbreak was traced to The Sands Resort on Ashworth Avenue, according to state Health Commissioner Jeffrey Meyers.

The bacteria that causes Legionnaires' disease was found in "multiple sources" at the hotel, including its water system and spa. Meyers ordered Tom Saab, the owner of The Sands, to remove the bacteria and notify current and future guests of the problem.

The deceased was identified only as an elderly individual. More cases are possible, officials said. The latest case was identified Tuesday, officials said.

Legionnaires' disease is typically found in wet areas including showers, hot tubs and faucets. Humans acquire the disease by breathing it in. Drinking contaminated water will not transmit the disease and the disease cannot be spread from person to person.

Legionnaires' disease was first discovered in 1976 after an outbreak at a Pennsylvania convention of the American Legion — hence its name. There were about 6,100 confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease in the U.S. last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Health officials said anyone who visited The Sands watch out for symptoms of Legionnaires' disease, which include fever, nausea, shortness of breath and chest pain. The elderly, young and sick are at higher risk of contracting Legionnaires' disease, which is usually not fatal in health individuals.

Previous:

• 1 Dead, 12 Infected In Hampton Beach Legionnaires' Outbreak
• 2 More Infected In Hampton Legionnaires' Spa Outbreak
• Hampton Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak Spreads
• Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak In Hampton: 4 Infected
• Hampton Legionnaires' Outbreak Update August 2018

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