2 Dead, At Least 58 Sick In Growing Legionnaires’ Outbreak In NYC

NEW YORK CITY — A Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in New York City has left two people dead and more than 50 sick, city health officials said Monday, marking a sharp rise in cases over the past few days.

A total of 58 cases of the potentially deadly, pneumonia-like illness have been confirmed in Central Harlem in recent days, following the initial identification of the cluster in late July, according to previous reports by Patch.

Health officials said the outbreak is concentrated in five ZIP codes within Central Harlem, with growing concern it may spread to nearby neighborhoods.

Cooling towers in the area have been tested for Legionella bacteria, the cause of the disease. As of last Wednesday, 22 cases had been reported, a number that has more than doubled since, the NYC Health Department said.

"Anyone in these zip codes with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible," Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse said in a statement. "Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older and those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions, should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin."

Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water. Infection typically occurs by inhaling water vapor containing the bacteria.

The Health Department has completed remediation of 11 cooling towers that tested positive for Legionella pneumophila. Officials urge anyone living or working in the area with symptoms like cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, or difficulty breathing to seek medical attention immediately.

While potentially deadly if untreated, Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious and can be effectively cured with antibiotics, according to the Health Department.