What is Legionnaires' disease and how is it contracted?

Legionnaires' disease is a severe lung infection that can be contracted by inhaling water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria, often found in air conditioning, hot tubs, or shower systems.

What happened to Juliet Leith on her Gran Canaria holiday?

Juliet Leith contracted Legionnaires' disease during her stay at a hotel in Gran Canaria, leading to a severe illness that required 12 days in ICU and a four-day induced coma.

Can Legionnaires' disease be prevented in hotels?

Yes, hotels can prevent Legionnaires' disease by implementing strict precautions such as regularly running showers and checking air conditioning units to prevent Legionella bacteria growth.

Home / Health / Gran Canaria Holiday Horror: Woman's Near-Death Battle

Gran Canaria Holiday Horror: Woman's Near-Death Battle

21 Jan

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Summary

Woman nearly died from Legionnaires' disease contracted on holiday.
She spent four days in an induced coma and 12 days in ICU.
Legal action is being investigated following the severe illness.

Gran Canaria Holiday Horror: Woman's Near-Death Battle

Juliet Leith, a retired teacher from Maidstone, has spoken out after a holiday to Gran Canaria resulted in a severe Legionnaires' disease infection. The 58-year-old spent 12 days in intensive care at a local hospital after developing flu-like symptoms, joint pain, and breathlessness during her stay at the Suite Princess hotel in Playa Taurito.

Admitted on September 26, 2025, Juliet tested positive for Legionnaires' disease, a lung infection caused by inhaling contaminated water droplets. Her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to a four-day induced coma. Doctors warned her daughters that her chances of survival were only about 20%, prompting them to travel from the UK.

After recovering sufficiently, Juliet returned to the UK and was transferred to Maidstone Hospital. She has since been discharged and is continuing her recovery as an outpatient. The incident, which cost her over £2,000 and was booked through TUI UK Limited, is now being investigated by serious injury lawyers.