What You Need to Know
• A third person has died in New York City due to an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease.
• The New York City Health Department reported at least 74 confirmed cases and eight hospitalizations.
• Health officials recommend medical attention for individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms in affected zip codes 10028, 10075, and 10128.
Dr. Alister F. Martin, New York City Health Commissioner, announced that a third individual has died from Legionnaires’ disease in the Upper East Side of New York City. The New York City Health Department has confirmed at least 74 cases, with eight individuals currently hospitalized. Dr. Martin expressed condolences to the families affected by this outbreak. Health officials urge anyone who has spent time in the impacted areas, including zip codes 10028, 10075, and 10128, to seek medical care if they experience flu-like symptoms, as symptoms can manifest up to 14 days after exposure. The Health Department believes the source of the bacteria has likely been eliminated and will continue inspections of cooling towers that tested positive for Legionella bacteria.
Why It Matters
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling Legionella bacteria, which can proliferate in warm water systems. The disease does not typically spread from person to person but can occur through contaminated water supplies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention noted an increase in Legionnaires’ disease cases over the past decade, with a peak of 2.71 cases per 100,000 people in 2018. Although most recover with antibiotics, vulnerable populations, such as those with compromised immune systems, face a higher risk of severe complications.
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