UPDATED NOTICE RE. THE JW MARRIOTT CHICAGO
**Updated Tuesday, September 4, 2012**
The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) informed the JW Marriott Chicago that previous customers of the hotel have been diagnosed with a type of a pneumonia referred to as Legionnaires’ disease. The hotel promptly responded and has been cooperating fully with an investigation into this matter. The CDPH and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) have confirmed the following as likely sources of the bacteria: the decorative fountain, which we immediately drained and have permanently removed; and portions of the Valeo Spa, including the whirlpool and pool, which are temporarily closed.
The CDPH believes there is no current health risk at the hotel.
With an abundance of caution, the hotel's water safety protocols are being enhanced with the support of NALCO, a consulting company known as a global leader in water and energy safety. After a full assessment, NALCO has provided recommendations which have been approved by the CDPH and the IDPH. These include the installation of a state-of-the-art clean water technology system and ongoing testing to deliver some of the cleanest water in the City of Chicago.
This disease is contracted by breathing in a warm mist or vapor containing the Legionella bacteria. It is not spread from one person to another.
We have notified all associates, and have reached out to guests who visited the hotel between July 16, 2012 through August 15, 2012 via letters, emails, phone calls, web site postings, and public press statements. Additionally, we've posted signs in the lobby and presented letters to all guests at check-in.
Should guests experience any flu-like symptoms, we advise them to promptly seek medical attention.
If you have questions or believe you may have been exposed, please call the Chicago Department of Public Health special hotline at +1 312-746-4835 from Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CDT.
For hotel-related questions, please call the Marriott Assistance Line at 866-211-4610. If calling from outside the U.S. or Canada, please call +1 402-390-3265.
Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this extremely unfortunate situation. We thank our guests for their loyalty and understanding, and salute the CDPH and our associates at the JW Marriott Chicago for their quick action.
Marriott is # 1 when come to safety
Posted by: Derrick Sabialeash | August 23, 2012 at 12:40 PM