A Pennsylvania court ruled that a man who became disabled after developing Legionnaires\u2019 Disease, is entitled to workers\u2019 compensation and medical benefits. Shawn Gillen said he contracted Legionnaires\u2019 Disease as a result of exposure to contaminated water while he was performing his job responsibilities at Nestle USA Inc. According to court records, Gillen was stationed in the company\u2019s office in Burlington, New Jersey, but carried out the majority of his duties in Pennsylvania.<\/p>\n
In June 2013, Gillen suffered flu-like symptoms and was treated at a hospital, where he lapsed into a coma and received a diagnosis of Legionnaire\u2019s Disease, a serious form of pneumonia brought about by exposure to water that contains the Legionella bacteria. The sickness had an adverse effect on his speech, and caused him to require the use of a wheelchair. He was also rendered incapable of attending to his basic needs. Court documents state that he likely suffered a brain injury due to the treatment he received.<\/p>\n
In September 2013, Gillen filed a claim against Nestle, alleging that he developed Legionnaires\u2019 Disease while engaged in work on fountain and soda drink machines that contained contaminated water. A workers\u2019 compensation judge decided that Gillen was temporarily totally disabled and should receive workers\u2019 compensation benefits. On appeal, in the case of Nestle USA Inc.\/Vitality vs. Workers\u2019 Compensation Appeal Board, a three-judge panel of the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania affirmed the judge\u2019s decision.<\/p>\n