George was diagnosed with MRSA on September 23, 2005 following coronary artery bypass surgery performed at Charleston Area Medical Center on September 6, 2005. The malpractice lawsuit claims that MRSA bacteria were introduced into George’s body via an indwelling line, resulting in a lengthy hospital stay, temporary and permanent injuries, and ongoing medical expenses.

Kelly George, the wife of Gerald George, is also a plaintiff in the suit. She is seeking compensatory damages due to the “irreparable loss of comfort, society, convenience and consortium from her husband, ” the West Virginia Record reported.

A spokesperson for West Virginia State University told the Associated Press that the institution had initially relied on the football players to self-report staph infections. A more accurate picture of the MRSA outbreak was later obtained through laboratory testing.