Nevada health officials have launched an investigation after two guests at the five-star Wynn Las Vegas hotel and casino contracted Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.
Details of the Cases
The affected individuals stayed at the resort separately in September 2025 and February 2026. Both have since recovered, according to the Southern Nevada Health District. Environmental testing revealed multiple samples from the facility tested positive for the bacteria. The resort promptly implemented water system sanitization measures, and subsequent tests show no detectable Legionella levels in affected areas.
Response from Wynn Las Vegas
A spokesperson for Wynn Las Vegas stated, 'Immediate, proactive steps were taken to remediate the system and ensure the highest standards of water quality. Ongoing testing confirms there is no ongoing risk to guests, and a comprehensive water management safety plan has been implemented to prevent recurrence.' The resort continues testing and has notified guests about potential exposure.
Anyone who stayed at Wynn Las Vegas on or after September 1, 2025, is urged to complete a confidential illness survey, even if they experienced mild symptoms that have since resolved.
Health Risks and Symptoms
Most healthy individuals exposed to Legionella do not become ill. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that one in ten people who contract Legionnaires' disease may die from complications such as lung failure. Symptoms typically appear 2–10 days after exposure and include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headaches lasting up to two weeks.
The bacteria are transmitted through inhalation of contaminated water mist, not person-to-person contact. Those with compromised immune systems, individuals under 50, and smokers face higher risks.
Rising Cases Nationwide
Approximately 6,000 Legionnaires' disease cases are reported annually in the U.S., though actual numbers may be higher due to misdiagnosis. Cases have been rising since the early 2000s, with climate change contributing to warmer temperatures that favor bacterial growth. Recent cases have also been reported in New York and North Carolina, where cases increased from 201 in 2024 to 310 in 2025.
Health authorities recommend flushing faucets and showerheads unused for three or more days, draining garden hoses, cleaning CPAP machines, and regularly disinfecting hot tubs to prevent Legionella growth.
