Health officials in New York City are looking into a cluster of cases of Legionnaires’ disease in two neighborhoods on the Upper East Side. As of July 6, there have been 23 reported cases, with 17 individuals hospitalized, but thankfully, no deaths have occurred.
Officials suggest that the source of the bacteria, which causes this type of pneumonia, could likely be a cooling tower in the vicinity. These towers, found atop buildings, help manage temperatures for systems like refrigeration. The city’s health department is testing all cooling towers in the affected areas—Carnegie Hill and Yorkville specifically, which include ZIP codes 10028, 10128, and 10075.
It’s important to note that this situation isn’t related to any plumbing issues in buildings. Therefore, residents can safely drink tap water, bathe, shower, cook, and use air conditioners. The bacteria isn’t transmissible from person to person, which is a relief.
Officials are urging anyone who has recently visited the area and is experiencing flu-like symptoms to reach out to a healthcare provider promptly.
Here’s a brief overview:
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
This disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water and can spread through building water systems. You might find these bacteria in showerheads, hot tubs, and cooling towers.
Typically, people get infected by inhaling tiny droplets of contaminated water. Those who are particularly vulnerable, like hospital patients or infants during water births, can also be at risk from contaminated water or ice.
Symptoms generally appear two days to two weeks after exposure and may include coughing, fever, headaches, muscle aches, and trouble breathing, as noted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Individuals at higher risk include those over 50 years old, smokers or vapers, people with chronic lung conditions, and those with weakened immune systems.
The name “Legionnaires’ disease” originates from an outbreak during an American Legion convention in Philadelphia back in 1976.
Is Legionnaires’ disease fatal?
It can be, unfortunately. The CDC estimates that about one in ten people who contract the disease may die due to complications. This underlines the importance of quick diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment, according to health officials.
If left untreated, the disease could worsen during the first week, leading to complications like respiratory failure, shock, and possibly kidney or multi-organ failure.
How can Legionnaires’ disease be prevented?
Those responsible for maintaining building safety and water systems can significantly reduce the risk by managing bacterial growth. This includes regularly cleaning and disinfecting cooling towers, ensuring appropriate chlorine levels in spa pools, and flushing unused taps weekly.
At home, there are steps people can take to minimize their risk of Legionnaires’ disease. New York health officials advise draining garden hoses, adhering to manufacturers’ guidelines for cleaning and changing water filters, checking pool and hot tub chlorine levels often, and flushing hot water heaters twice a year.
