Eagle County public health officials are investigating three cases of Legionnaires’ disease linked to the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, reported between July and December 2025. This investigation, in collaboration with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), has confirmed that all affected individuals were out-of-town visitors, and importantly, there have been no fatalities related to the outbreak.
Legionella bacteria causes Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia that can be transmitted through inhaling water droplets from contaminated sources such as hot tubs or decorative fountains. In response to the detection of the bacteria, all hot tubs, spas, and water features at the resort were temporarily closed. These facilities recently reopened following a thorough remediation process and subsequent testing, which confirmed the absence of Legionella bacteria.
According to a press release from the Eagle County Public Health and Environment Department, officials emphasized that there is no ongoing risk to the broader community. “Public health is a team effort, and protecting our community requires strong collaboration,” stated Heath Harmon, director of ECPHE. He highlighted the crucial partnership between their department, the CDPHE, and Ritz-Carlton management in quickly addressing the situation.
Despite multiple attempts to reach Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch for comments, no official response was provided by the deadline. However, health officials confirmed that the hotel conducted internal notifications for both guests and staff regarding the outbreak.
Legionnaires’ disease is not spread from person to person. Instead, it is contracted by breathing in mist containing the bacteria. Claire Noble, an Eagle County spokesperson, explained that while most individuals exposed to Legionella do not become ill, it poses a threat primarily to vulnerable populations.
Guests of the hotel first brought the outbreak to the attention of local media, prompting questions about the timing of public health notifications. Noble addressed these concerns, reiterating that public health efforts initially focused on those directly at risk, including hotel staff and guests. “Public health’s focus is on whoever is immediately at risk,” she said.
For those who may fall ill, prompt medical care and antibiotics can effectively treat Legionnaires’ disease. County health officials recommend visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information on the risks and treatments associated with this illness.
The swift response from health authorities illustrates the importance of vigilance in public health, particularly in hospitality settings where water systems play a crucial role in guest safety.
