Las Vegas, NV (KXNT) - The Southern Nevada Health District is investigating three travel-associated cases of Legionnaires’ disease in guests who stayed at Caesars Palace and the Orleans Hotel and Casino.
Two individuals who have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease stayed at Caesars Palace within the last 12 months. Environmental samples taken from the property tested positive for Legionella.
The facility is cooperating with the Health District’s investigation and conducted remediation of the water system. The most recent environmental testing did not detect Legionella bacteria. Steps to notify guests of the potential for exposure and ways to minimize risk are underway.
In addition to the one new cases at the Orleans, two cases were diagnosed in guests who stayed at the property earlier this year.
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 Caesars Palace 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 Caesars Palace from August 1, 2023, to August 23, 2023, or 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.
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