1931 Hospitality Drive Lancaster Pennsylvania 17601
Emergency services are currently responding to a confirmed outbreak of Legionnaires' disease at 1931 Hospitality Drive, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, 17601. Public health officials have declared an immediate investigation into the source of the contamination.
This outbreak at the specific address, a prominent hotel within Lancaster County, has prompted a rapid response from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local emergency management agencies. The primary objective is to contain the spread of the disease and identify all individuals potentially exposed.
Confirmed Cases and Initial Response
As of this morning, seven confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease have been linked to 1931 Hospitality Drive. The first case was reported on October 26, 2024, triggering an immediate epidemiological investigation.
The subsequent discovery of six additional cases within a short timeframe prompted the declaration of a public health emergency specifically targeting the location.
The identities of those infected are being withheld to protect their privacy; however, all affected individuals are receiving medical treatment.
Source Investigation
The Pennsylvania Department of Health, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is leading the investigation to determine the source of the Legionella contamination. Water samples have been collected from various points within the hotel's water system, including showers, faucets, and the cooling tower.
Preliminary tests have revealed the presence of Legionella bacteria in the cooling tower. Further analysis is underway to determine the specific strain and concentration levels.
The cooling tower has been immediately shut down and is undergoing disinfection procedures.
Hotel Closure and Guest Notification
Effective immediately, 1931 Hospitality Drive has been ordered to close to the public. This measure is being taken to prevent further exposure and facilitate thorough remediation efforts.
Hotel management is actively notifying guests who stayed at the property between October 1, 2024, and October 27, 2024. Guests are being advised to monitor for symptoms of Legionnaires' disease, which include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and muscle aches.
Individuals experiencing these symptoms are urged to seek immediate medical attention and inform their healthcare provider of their potential exposure at the hotel.
Public Health Recommendations
The Pennsylvania Department of Health is issuing the following recommendations to individuals who may have been exposed: Closely monitor for symptoms for up to 14 days after potential exposure.
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop. Inform your healthcare provider of potential exposure at 1931 Hospitality Drive.
Stay informed about updates from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and local news outlets.
Ongoing Remediation and Monitoring
Comprehensive remediation efforts are underway at 1931 Hospitality Drive. The disinfection process includes hyperchlorination of the water system and thorough cleaning of all potentially contaminated areas.
The water system will undergo repeated testing to ensure that Legionella bacteria are no longer present before the hotel is permitted to reopen.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to the public as new information becomes available.
Legal and Regulatory Oversight
The incident at 1931 Hospitality Drive is subject to review by regulatory authorities. Compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations will be rigorously assessed.
Potential penalties for non-compliance could include fines, license suspension, or other corrective actions. Legal counsel for the hotel is cooperating fully with the investigation.
A full assessment of the hotel's water management plan will be conducted to ensure it meets or exceeds industry standards.
Community Concerns and Resources
Local residents have expressed concerns about the outbreak and its potential impact on the community. Public health officials are holding informational sessions to address these concerns and provide accurate information about Legionnaires' disease.
Resources, including fact sheets and contact information for health professionals, are being made available at the Lancaster County Health Department and online.
The Lancaster County Health Department can be reached at (XXX) XXX-XXXX for further information and assistance.
Next Steps
The Pennsylvania Department of Health will continue to provide updates on the investigation and remediation efforts at 1931 Hospitality Drive. Further testing of water samples is ongoing.
The hotel will remain closed until public health officials determine that it is safe to reopen. The reopening date is currently undetermined.
Regular press briefings will be held to keep the public informed of any new developments.
