Outbreak of deadly legionnaires’ disease at Suncity Hotel & Beach Club

An outbreak of the deadly water-borne illness Legionnaires’ disease has led to the evacuation of hundreds of October visitors to the Suncity Hotel & Beach Club in Oludeniz, Turkey.

The guests were moved to alternative hotels after returning British holidaymakers were diagnosed with the lung infection.  Tour Operator TUI offered those forced to change accommodation £100.  A risk assessment is now being carried out at the hotel.

Legionnaires’ disease can be caught by inhaling droplets of water that have been infected with the bacteria (for example through air conditioning, bathroom fittings or pools).  The initial symptoms usually involve headache, muscle pains, chills and fever.  After a few days, the symptoms typically evolve into coughing, chest pains, shortness of breath, sickness and diarrhoea and even mental changes.  The condition can be fatal if left untreated.

Though it can thrive in soil and water, the Legionella bacteria rarely causes infections via outdoor sources.  However, it can multiply rapidly in indoor systems.  Preventing an outbreak requires meticulous disinfection of water systems, pools and spas.

We understand the seriousness of Legionnaires’ disease and its impact on your holiday. At the Holiday Claims Bureau, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate through this challenging situation. Reach out to us at 0161 813 2131 or begin your holiday illness claim through our online claim form.

“A disaster waiting to happen”

TripAdvisor reviewers affected by events have commented on the developing situation.  User theflyingdutchman69 says that it was “A disaster waiting to happen and looks like it has, starting with our evacuation due to suspected Legionnaires’ disease.”

Meanwhile, Janice O who has returned to the UK, says:

“I was there, sore throat and a bad cough as most of the guests had too.”I have had to go on another course of antibiotics and awaiting tests for legionella. Obviously hoping everything is ok but there is something in that hotel that is leading to all this respiratory illness. Guests have been complaining about it on this site even before we went to Suncity.”

Holiday Claims Bureau are monitoring the situation at the Suncity Hotel & Beach Club.  We would urge any recent visitors to the area who are feeling unwell with any of the symptoms described to seek urgent medical attention.

Clearly, Tour Operators should take steps to ensure that the hotels at which they sell package holidays are implementing the correct water safety systems.  We have previously successfully represented claimants who have contracted legionnaires’ on package holidays, and we are keen to speak to anyone who has been affected by this outbreak.

Call us today on 0161 813 2131 or use our online contact form.