LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — An investigation into two cases of Legionnaires’ disease at a Las Vegas Strip resort has begun, according to Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) officials.
The investigation announcement comes following the finding of two travel-associated cases of Legionnaires’ disease in guests who stayed at Caesars Palace Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. One individual stayed at the resort in December 2023, while the other was there in June 2024.
Health officials sampled water from the resort after discovering the cases. In the initial case, the samples tested negative for Legionella. However, sampling from the Caesars Palace “Palace Tower” was conducted in July, after the discovery of the second case, with one of the 19 samples testing positive. The remaining were negative.
“The facility is cooperating with the Health District’s investigation and steps to notify guests of the potential for exposure and ways to minimize risk are underway,” the SNHD release said.
Legionnaires’ disease is described by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials as a serious type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. Symptoms begin within two to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria, health officials said, adding that people should watch for symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches and headaches for up to two weeks after exposure.
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
“Guests who stayed at Caesars Palace prior to July 11, 2024, and have not developed symptoms are not at risk for disease,” the release said. Anyone who stayed at Caesars Palace between July 11 and July 24 and experienced symptoms up to 14 days after the stay is asked to report their illness on a Health District survey.
“If guests are currently still symptomatic, they should seek medical attention and alert their medical provider of the potential exposure,” Health District officials said.
