Legionnaires’ Disease Discovered at Caesars Palace Las Vegas
Two distinct incidents of Legionnaire’s disease are under investigation involving hotel guests who recently visited Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. One took place in December 2023, the other in June 2024.
According to the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD), all water samples collected after the initial case showed negative results for the Legionella bacteria. Out of 19 samples collected from different locations in the water system following the second case, one was found to be positive in the Palace Tower of the property.
In a press statement, the SNHD announced that it carried out remediation of the water system and follow-up testing has yielded negative results. It also mentioned that Caesars Entertainment, the operator of Caesars Palace, is completely cooperating with the inquiry. It is informing all visitors who resided in the tower about their possible exposure and methods to reduce their risk.
If someone is exposed to Legionnaires’ disease, symptoms typically appear within two to 10 days. Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, fever, body aches, and headaches.
Visitors who were at Caesars Palace between July 11-24, 2024, and encountered any of these symptoms within 14 days after their stay, can report their health issues to the Health District by filling out a survey available here.
If guests are still experiencing symptoms, the SNHD advises them to seek medical help and inform their healthcare provider about their possible exposure.
Visitors who were at Caesars Palace prior to July 11, 2024, and do not show symptoms, are not at risk for illness.
Your likelihood of getting Legionnaire’s disease is higher if you:
- are 50 years or older
- are a current or former smoker
- have a chronic lung disease
- have a weakened immune systems
- take drugs that can weaken your immune systems (such as after a transplant operation or chemotherapy)
- have an underlying illnesses such as diabetes, kidney failure, or liver failure
In August of last year, the SNHD looked into three instances of Legionnaires’ disease — one involving a visitor at the Orleans and two involving visitors at Caesars Palace. Water samples collected from each property showed positive results for Legionella, and remediation was carried out on both water systems.
Individuals with further inquiries can reach out to the Health District’s Helpline at (702) 759-4636 (INFO), available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. From Monday to Friday. To learn more about Legionnaire’s disease, check the website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
