Harlem Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak: Third Death Reported
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The City’s Health Department announced Tuesday that a third person has died in connection with a growing outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in central Harlem. This advancement marks a somber escalation in the public health concern, as officials continue to investigate the source of the illness.
As of Aug. 6, health officials have identified 70 cases of the disease sence July 25, spanning five ZIP codes: 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037 and 10039. The outbreak has prompted a thorough investigation and remediation efforts across the affected area.
What You Need To Know
- A third fatality has been linked to the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in central Harlem, according to health officials.
- Currently, 70 cases have been confirmed as July 25 across five Harlem ZIP codes.
- DOH Acting Health Commissioner and Chief Medical Officer Michelle Morse stated that 43 cooling towers were tested,with 11 initially positive for the bacteria.
- The DOH has confirmed that New York City’s water systems remain uncontaminated.
DOH Acting health commissioner and Chief Medical Officer Michelle Morse reported that the city tested 43 cooling towers in the affected area, with 11 initially testing positive for Legionella pneumophila, the bacteria responsible for Legionnaires’ disease. The Health Department confirmed that all 11 towers have since undergone remediation.
Officials with the DOH emphasized that the city’s water systems are not contaminated, reassuring residents that the outbreak is not linked to municipal water supplies.
Understanding Legionnaires’ Disease
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. These bacteria thrive in warm water environments and can spread through water vapor produced by cooling towers, hot tubs, humidifiers, and other water systems. Importantly, the disease is not transmitted from person to person.
common symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a positive outcome.
Health officials are strongly advising anyone in the affected area experiencing flu-like symptoms to seek immediate medical attention. This is particularly crucial for New Yorkers aged 50 and over, smokers, and individuals with pre-existing chronic lung conditions or compromised immune systems.
“Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early,” Morse said in a statement, underscoring the importance of prompt medical care.
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