Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak Claims Sixth Life in Upper East Side
Health officials confirmed on Tuesday that a sixth person has died from the ongoing Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on the Upper East Side. Interestingly, there haven’t been any new reported cases in almost two weeks.
City Council President Julie Menin expressed her sorrow, stating, “Heartbreakingly, we have just learned of a sixth death associated with a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on the Upper East Side,” in a statement she shared.
“Our thoughts are with their families and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Menin added, underscoring the community’s collective grief.
Since July 17, no new cases of this pneumonia-like illness have emerged, and the latest information indicates the outbreak is slowing down “significantly.” Yet, Menin remarked, “While no new cases have been reported in nearly two weeks…every loss is a devastating reminder of the toll this outbreak has taken on our community.”
According to the New York City Department of Health, 77 cooling towers have tested positive for Legionella bacteria since July 2, and a total of 90 individuals have been infected with this potentially serious illness.
Major tourist sites like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum, along with the Marriott Hotel and All Souls Church, have cooling towers that tested positive. Following the findings, city officials mandated that buildings with positive results clean and disinfect their systems as part of the response effort.
Health authorities have indicated that all necessary repairs had been completed by July 16. Currently, six individuals remain hospitalized with Legionnaires’ disease.
An earlier report had noted another death in this outbreak just last Tuesday. This disease, linked with flu-like symptoms, can lead to severe pneumonia and is treatable with antibiotics if identified early.
People aged over 50, those who smoke or vape, or individuals with chronic conditions like heart, lung, kidney, or liver diseases, diabetes, or a compromised immune system are considered more vulnerable to complications.
