LAS VEGAS—The Southern Nevada Health District is investigating three travel-associated cases of Legionnaires’ disease in individuals who stayed at Harrah’s Laughlin in May. All three were hospitalized; two have since recovered, and one remained hospitalized at the time the Health District received the report.
Following notification of cases, the Health District conducted environmental sampling at the facility. Multiple samples tested positive for Legionella, the bacteria that can cause Legionnaires’ disease. In response, Harrah’s Laughlin completed disinfection of its water systems, and the most recent samples were non-detect for Legionella. Harrah’s Laughlin will continue follow-up testing to help ensure the safety of its water systems. The facility is cooperating with the Health District’s investigation, has initiated guest notifications regarding the potential exposure, and is implementing precautionary measures to mitigate any further risk of illness.
Legionnaires’ disease symptoms typically begin within two to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria. However, people should watch for symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches and headaches for up to two weeks after exposure.
Guests who stayed at Harrah’s Laughlin on or after May 1, 2025, and who developed or are experiencing symptoms within 14 days of their stay are urged to complete a confidential illness survey, at https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/8370305/Harrah-s-Legionella-Investigation. If guests are currently still symptomatic, they should seek medical attention and alert their medical provider of the potential exposure.
People who are at increased risk of getting sick include:
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- People 50 years or older
- Current or former smokers
- People with chronic lung disease
- People with weakened immune systems
- People who take drugs that can weaken their immune systems (after a transplant operation or chemotherapy)
- People with underlying illnesses such as diabetes, kidney failure, or liver failure
Anyone with additional questions can contact the Health District’s Helpline at (702) 759-4636 (INFO), Monday – Friday, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. More information on Legionnaire’s disease is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/legionella/index.html.