Southern Nevada Health District conducting Legionnaires’ disease investigation at The Orleans Hotel & Casino

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 24, 2023

LAS VEGAS – The Southern Nevada Health District is investigating a travel-associated case of Legionnaires’ disease in a guest that stayed at The Orleans Hotel & Casino.

Earlier this year, there was an investigation at the facility after two confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease in guests were reported. Remediation of the property’s water system was conducted, and post-remediation testing did not detect Legionella bacteria. A third guest of the property was recently identified as a case, and environmental samples have tested positive for Legionella.

The facility is cooperating with the Health District’s investigation and undergoing remediation and environmental testing to ensure elimination of the bacteria to protect the health and safety of its guests. Steps to notify current guests of the potential for exposure and ways to minimize risk are underway.

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease will usually begin within two to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria. However, people should watch for symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches and headaches for up to two weeks after exposure. Guests who stayed at The Orleans Hotel & Casino more than two weeks ago and have not developed symptoms are not at risk for disease. If guests of the property develop symptoms within 14 days of their stay, they should seek medical attention and alert their medical provider of the potential exposure.

Guests who stayed at The Orleans dating back to August 1, 2023, and experienced symptoms up to 14 days after their stay can report their illness to the Health District using a survey posted on its website at https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7488633/e70472c1f429.

People who are at increased risk of getting sick include:

- People 50 years or older
- Current or former smokers
- People with chronic lung disease
- People with weakened immune systems
- People who take drugs that can weaken their immune systems (after a transplant operation or chemotherapy)
- People with underlying illnesses such as diabetes, kidney failure, or liver failure

Anyone with additional questions can contact the Health District’s Helpline at (702) 759-4636 (INFO), Monday – Friday, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. More information on Legionnaire’s disease is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/legionella/index.html.

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The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.