McHenry motel hot tub believed source of Legionnaires'

Two people were diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease after staying at a McHenry Hampton Inn, officials said Friday.

McHenry County Health Department officials said they believe the pair contracted the bacterial disease by using the hotel's hot tub sometime between May 9 and June 4.

Both individuals were hospitalized; one has since been released.

The Illinois Department of Public Health, which licenses and inspects the Hampton Inn's pool and hot tub, is leading an investigation.

Both facilities have been closed since Wednesday, officials said in a Friday news release.

Legionnaires' disease is caused by a type of bacteria commonly found in the environment.

People can get Legionnaires' by breathing in a mist or vapor that has been contaminated with the bacteria.

Symptoms are similar to pneumonia, typically begin two to 14 days after exposure and include high fever, chills, cough, muscle aches and headaches.

McHenry County Health Department officials said they typically see one to two cases of Legionnaires' disease each year.

Persons most at risk include those over age 65, smokers and those with chronic lung disease.

Though the most serious cases result in death, most cases can be treated successfully with antibiotics, the release said.

Health department officials have not yet determined how many people stayed at the hotel and used the hot tub from May 9 to June 4.

Those with concerns are urged to call the McHenry County Health Department's hotline at (815) 334-2800 or to visit www.mcdh.info.