5th Legionnaires' case confirmed

A fifth case of Legionnaires' disease at The Park at Vernon Hills retirement community was confirmed Friday by health officials.

The onset of the case was in late October, said Kelly Jakubek, Illinois Department of Public Health spokeswoman.

The patient has recovered, Jakubek added. Two infected residents have died of the disease, which is a form of pneumonia. One of the deaths occurred in September but it was considered an isolated case until a second was reported in early November.

"There may be other cases that are being investigated, but at this time we can confirm five," Jakubek said.

Seven other suspected cases were investigated. Five results were negative but the outcome of the other two were not immediately available Friday.

Meanwhile, health officials await results of testing to determine a possible source of the disease. Legionnaires' is contracted by inhaling mists of water containing the bacteria. It is not contagious but smokers, the elderly and those with lung or kidney disease, diabetes, cancer or weakened immune systems are at higher risk of contracting the disease.

Water samples and swabs have been taken, interviews with residents conducted and information disseminated. Officials at The Park, 145 N. Milwaukee Ave., also has hired a private firm to perform an independent review of the systems at the facility.

The centerpiece of The Park is a 6-story rain forest, billed as the largest of its type in the world, as well as a waterfall and spa. All have been closed by order of state health officials.

Water samples were first taken on Nov. 5 with results expected in 10 to 14 days. Subsequent samples and swab tests were taken as well.

Village officials also are monitoring the situation.

"We pulled the building plans out and are ready to work with them," said Village Manager Mike Allison. "We'd like to know what modification needs to be made, if any."

About 260 residents live at The Park, an independent and assisted living facility.