Legionnaires’ ‍Disease Outbreak in New York City: 5 ⁤Deaths,108 Cases Confirmed

New York City‍ health officials are responding to a growing outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Central​ Harlem,manhattan. As of August 20, 2025, the outbreak has tragically ⁣resulted ⁤in five​ deaths⁤ and 108 confirmed cases.⁤ The cases are clustered across five ZIP codes: 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, ‌and 10039.

What is Legionnaires’ Disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of ⁣pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. these bacteria thrive in warm water⁣ environments. Infection occurs when contaminated water or water vapor ⁢is inhaled. Symptoms ‌typically develop two to 14 days⁤ after exposure and can⁤ mimic the flu, including cough,⁣ fever, chills, headaches, ⁣muscle aches, and shortness of breath.

Did You Know? While Legionnaires’ disease is named ⁣after an outbreak⁢ among American​ Legion‌ convention ‌attendees in 1976, it’s a relatively rare illness, but cases have‍ been increasing in ⁣recent decades.

Outbreak Details and Examination

The ⁣New York City Health Department first detected the cluster ⁢on July ‌25, 2025. ⁤ Dr. Michelle Morse, the acting commissioner of the city health department, stated that ​epidemiological evidence⁢ suggests remediation efforts are proving effective, with new cases declining. Though, the ⁣investigation ⁤remains ongoing.

Currently,‍ 14 individuals are hospitalized⁣ due⁤ to the‌ disease. Health officials emphasize that the risk to most residents in the⁣ affected⁣ ZIP‍ codes remains low. Though, they strongly advise ⁤anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.

Source of the Outbreak: Cooling Towers

the outbreak has been​ traced to cooling ⁣towers in Central Harlem. These towers are used to dissipate heat from buildings. The Health Department sampled and tested ⁤water from ⁣all cooling towers within the​ affected area. Twelve towers initially ​tested positive for Legionella bacteria and have since undergone remediation.

Pro Tip: Cooling towers require regular maintainance and‌ disinfection to prevent the growth⁤ of Legionella ​and other harmful bacteria.

Officials have⁣ clarified that ⁣the outbreak⁤ is ⁣not⁣ linked ⁤to the buildings’ internal plumbing or hot/cold ⁢water supplies. ⁣ The ‍cooling⁤ tower systems are separate. Residents and workers are ‍assured that air conditioning⁢ units, including window units, are safe to ⁣use.

Legionnaires’ Disease: A Historical Viewpoint

The‌ disease gained notoriety in 1976 following an‌ outbreak at ⁣the American Legion convention in Philadelphia, resulting in ⁣29 deaths ( Fraser ​et al., 1977). While typically rare, the American⁤ Lung Association notes a concerning trend of increasing cases nationwide ( American Lung association). Warmer temperatures and increased humidity ‍are believed to contribute to this rise.

New York City has⁣ experienced previous outbreaks, including a⁣ significant event in 2015 in the South Bronx, ​linked to ‌a single cooling tower, resulting in ‍138 cases and 16 deaths. ⁢A smaller cluster occured in the Highbridge neighborhood of the Bronx ⁤in 2022, affecting 30 individuals.

Preventing Legionnaires’ ⁣Disease

Preventing Legionnaires’ disease involves maintaining ⁤and disinfecting water systems. The Centers for ⁢Disease ⁣Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends regular cleaning of pipes and ‍devices that​ use water,such as‍ cooling towers,hot tubs,and humidifiers ( CDC). Individuals at higher risk – those aged 50 and older,smokers,and people with chronic lung conditions or weakened ⁤immune systems – should be notably⁣ vigilant about seeking medical care if symptoms develop.

What steps can communities take to ⁢proactively address the risk of Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks? How can building owners ⁤ensure ⁢their cooling towers are properly maintained and disinfected?

We encourage you to share this information with your community and stay informed about the ongoing situation.If you⁢ have any concerns, please consult‌ with your healthcare provider. You can also subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on public health issues.