ATLANTA — The hotel at the center of the Legionnaires' disease outbreak says it will keep its doors closed for nearly a month.
Channel 2 Action News has learned that the Sheraton Atlanta hotel will remain closed through Aug. 11 as crews find the source of the exposure.
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As of Thursday, there are six confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease from people who recently stayed at the hotel. Channel 2 Action News first reported the cases of Legionnaires' disease earlier this week.
Legionnaires' disease is a type of lung infection that is caused by bacteria living in warm water. You get it by breathing in affected water droplets and there are many ways to be exposed.
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The hotel said it is working with environmental consultants taking water samples from the pool, hot tub, fountain and chillers to determine if any of those might be the source of the legionella bacteria.
"At this time it remains unknown if the source of the exposure is located within the hotel," the hotel said in a statement. "We are hoping to limit work disruption while the hotel is closed and keep Sheraton Atlanta's associates gainfully employed."
The hotel says some of its employees are already working at other properties and it is hosting an offsite town hall to update them on the situation and help with temporary employment opportunities.
Guests whose reservations have been canceled will receive full refunds. For reservations assistance, call 1-888-236-2427.
Cox Media Group
