Latest Legionnaires’ Outbreak In NYC Infects 5 People, Health Officials Warn

NEW YORK CITY — Health officials have identified a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in Central Harlem, prompting the New York City Department of Health to issue a warning this weekend.

Five cases of the potentially fatal, pneumonia-like illness have been diagnosed in Central Harlem in recent days, though no deaths have been reported, according to the Health Department.

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, and 10037 — and in neighboring communities.

"Any New Yorkers with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible," said Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Toni Eyssallenne. "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.