A Limerick man has died after contracting Legionnaires’ disease on a 40th wedding anniversary holiday in Chicago.
Thomas Keane, Janesboro, Limerick, died on Wednesday in the Mid-Western Regional Hospital. He was one of eight people who had contracted the disease in Chicago’s Marriott Hotel in the past week. Two people died from the condition, which takes two to eight days to manifest. His funeral will take place this weekend.
Mr Keane had travelled to Chicago with his wife, Olive, as a 40th wedding anniversary treat, in particular to visit his son Shane (29), who secured a summer job there. After dining at the five-star hotel, they returned to Limerick three weeks ago.
This week, he complained of feeling ill and was taken to hospital.
Mr Keane had worked for Limerick City Council (formerly Limerick Corporation). He retired in November 2010.