1 Dead, 22 Others Sickened In NYC Legionnaires’ Outbreak

HARLEM, NY — One person has died, and 22 others have been identified with Legionnaires’ disease in Central Harlem, New York City Department of Health officials announced.

Five cases of the potentially fatal, pneumonia-like illness had been diagnosed in Central Harlem in recent days, Patch previously reported.

Health officials found a cluster of cases in five zip codes in Central Harlem. Officials said cooling towers in the area have been tested for the bacteria that cause the disease.

So far, the cases appear to be contained within Central Harlem — specifically in ZIP codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, 10039 and in neighboring communities.

"Anyone with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible,"Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Toni Eyssallenne said. "Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older, those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin."

Although potentially fatal if left untreated, Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious and can typically be treated with antibiotics if caught early, according to the Health Department.

The disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella, a bacteria that grows in warm water systems such as cooling towers. It spreads through inhalation of contaminated water vapor — not through person-to-person contact.

Health officials urge anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, muscle aches, or a persistent cough, to seek medical care immediately.