Two Cases of Legionnaires’ Disease Linked to New Hampshire Resort

Health officials in New Hampshire have identified two individuals who recently contracted Legionnaires’ disease after staying at the Mountain View Grand Resort in Whitefield. One person, a resident of Rhode Island, and the other, a resident of Massachusetts, were affected. Tragically, the Massachusetts resident has passed away. An investigation is currently underway to determine the source of exposure.

Legionella Bacteria and Infection

Legionella bacteria are aerobic, gram-negative, intracellular pathogens commonly found in water and soil. Human infection typically occurs through inhalation of contaminated water aerosols. While most cases of Legionnaires’ disease are sporadic, outbreaks can occur, often associated with exposure to contaminated communal water supplies in large facilities like hospitals, hotels, or apartment buildings.

Resort’s Response

The Mountain View Grand Resort & Spa has expressed its commitment to the well-being of its guests and employees. The state health department has confirmed that they are unable to determine where the individuals contracted the infection. The resort is working closely with the New Hampshire Division of Public Health Services and the Department of Environmental Services to investigate if the two individuals were affected during their visit in the fall of 2023. The resort continues to follow strict protocols to ensure the health and safety of everyone while awaiting test results to identify the potential source.

This is a developing news story; stay with 7NEWS on-air and online for the latest details.