A teacher at Pasadena Fundamental Elementary School in Florida tragically passed away after contracting Legionnaires’ disease, leading to the temporary closure of classrooms at the school.
Katherine Pennington, 61, was hospitalized with severe symptoms, including a high fever, chills, headache, and sweats, which rapidly worsened. Her condition deteriorated to organ failure, and she died on November 24. According to her sister, Suzanne Geisler, Pennington was in intensive care for four days before her passing.
In response, the school principal, Donita Moody, sent an email to parents on Wednesday informing them that students in Building 4 would be moved to other classrooms while repairs were made to the air-conditioning system. The note, however, did not mention the teacher’s death or Legionnaires’ disease. It explained that, as a precaution, air quality tests would be conducted to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The email assured parents that students would return to their original classrooms once the repairs and air quality tests were completed. However, concerns were reportedly raised by a colleague of Pennington regarding standing water and black mold in the air-conditioning handler, which might have contributed to the issue.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe lung infection caused by Legionella bacteria, often spread through inhalation of contaminated water droplets. It primarily affects individuals with compromised immune systems, such as smokers, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions. While treatable with antibiotics, Legionnaires can be fatal if not addressed promptly.
It is still unclear whether Pennington contracted the disease at the school or elsewhere, and her case remains unconfirmed. The Florida Department of Health and Pinellas County Schools have been contacted for further details.
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