A cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases has been reported in New York City, resulting in one death and 67 cases, with 12 people currently hospitalized. The New York City Health Commissioner, Dr. Alister Martin, announced that the cases are believed to be connected to bacteria found in building cooling towers on the Upper East Side.

Investigation and Response

Officials have tested 76 buildings and found that their cooling towers tested positive for Legionella bacteria. The owners of these buildings have been ordered to drain, clean, and disinfect the towers. According to Dr. Martin, all the owners have confirmed that they have completed the required remediation.

The city has taken steps to prevent the spread of the disease, including increased inspections of cooling towers and increased fines for property owners who fail to comply. Last year, a similar outbreak in Harlem resulted in 92 hospitalizations and seven deaths, leading to a new law requiring more frequent inspections of cooling towers.

Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia that can be caused by exposure to Legionella bacteria, which can be found in warm, wet environments such as cooling towers, hot tubs, and plumbing systems. The disease is not contagious, but it can be managed with antibiotics if caught early.

Residents who have been in the affected area in the past couple of weeks are advised to watch for symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, headaches, low appetite, confusion, and diarrhea. Most people who are exposed to Legionella bacteria do not get sick, but people who are over 50, smoke or vape, or have weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions are more susceptible to the disease.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.