DOH investigating Legionnaires’ disease cases at Waikiki hotel
The state Department of Health is investigating two cases of Legionnaires’ disease in guests who stayed at The Grand Islander by Hilton Grand Vacations located in Waikiki.
The two confirmed cases are in non-Hawaii residents. The first case was diagnosed in June 2021, and the second case was diagnosed on March 6 or 7 of this year.
“While the risk to the general public is low, cases of Legionnaires’ disease are on the rise nationwide,” said State Epidemiologist Sarah Kemble. “Individuals who stayed at the Hilton Grand Islander in the last two weeks who develop symptoms or individuals who were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease after a stay at the Grand Islander are encouraged to seek medical attention and contact DOH.”
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by exposure to Legionella bacteria. Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headache. Symptoms usually begin within two to 14 days of exposure.
Most healthy people exposed to Legionella bacteria do not develop Legionnaires’ disease. Those at increased risk include people 50 and older, current or former smokers, and people with a chronic lung disease or weakened immune system.
Legionnaires’ disease is treated with antibiotics and cannot spread from person to person. Legionella bacteria are found in freshwater environments and can spread in water systems such as showerheads and sink faucets, cooling towers, hot tubs, and large plumbing systems.
The exact source of the illness and extent of its spread are still being investigated.
The DOH’s Disease Reporting Line is (808) 586-4586.
