Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak in NYC Claims Three Lives

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A cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in New York City has left three people dead and at least 67 infected, as health officials continue investigating the source of the outbreak.

The illness, a serious type of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, is believed to have spread from contaminated cooling towers in Central Harlem. These towers use water and fans to cool buildings, and if not properly maintained, can become breeding grounds for dangerous bacteria.

City health officials have confirmed that 11 cooling towers initially tested positive for Legionella, though those have since been disinfected.

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What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection caused by inhaling mist or vapor containing Legionella bacteria. It's not contagious and cannot spread from person to person. The bacteria thrive in warm, stagnant water, often found in:

• Cooling towers

• Hot tubs

• Plumbing systems

• Showerheads and faucets

While exposure doesn’t always lead to illness, certain individuals are at higher risk — particularly adults over 50, smokers, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic lung conditions.

Symptoms to Watch For

Legionnaires’ disease often looks like other forms of pneumonia or the flu. Symptoms may begin 2 to 14 days after exposure and can include:

• Persistent cough

• Fever or chills

• Muscle aches

• Headaches

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

In severe cases, the infection can progress to respiratory failure or death, especially if left untreated.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The disease can be diagnosed through lab testing of urine or respiratory samples, as well as chest X-rays to confirm pneumonia.

Once identified, Legionnaires’ disease is typically treated with antibiotics, and most people recover with prompt medical care. However, the CDC estimates that 1 in 10 infected individuals may die from complications.

Health Advisory for Affected NYC Neighborhoods

Residents in impacted ZIP codes — 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, 10039, and nearby areas — are urged to seek medical attention if they develop symptoms, especially if they fall into a higher-risk category.

Health officials stress that while the water systems believed to be responsible have been cleaned, early detection and treatment remain key to preventing further illness.

Stay informed. Stay safe. And if you're experiencing symptoms, don’t wait — speak with your doctor.