MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A local motel is closed after the Shelby County Health Department confirmed six people came down with Legionnaire’s Disease inside its walls.
“This is a high occupancy hotel and these people are from all over the country,” said Helen Morrow with the department.
WREG first reported the dangers last week when the department shut down the La Quinta Inn in the 2900 block of Millbranch Road.
Legionnaires’ disease is a respiratory disease caused by bacteria often in hot tubs, fountains and air conditioning units.
Antibiotics are used as treatment.
Morrow said there is no telling the reach of this disease.
“The time period we are concerned about is between July 1 and September 22, 2016,” she said. “We are in the process of notifying patrons via email, snail mail and telephone.”
With big events like Elvis Week and the Southern Heritage Classic taking place during that time period, health professional said guest from across the globe could be exposed.
“If they stayed there and became ill, they should inform their doctor and that should be considered a diagnosis.”
Symptoms are similar to other types of pneumonia and it often looks the same on a chest x-ray.
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
If you stayed at this motel and have the below symptoms, please contact the Shelby County Health Department at 901-222-9299.