Former Governor Andrew Cuomo stated on Wednesday that Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration needs to initiate an investigation into how New York City managed the recent Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem.
Cuomo, who is currently campaigning for mayor, presided over a similar outbreak in the Bronx in 2015 that resulted in 15 fatalities and over 120 hospitalizations. Responding to concerns from local officials and residents, he ordered a state investigation, which eventually led to new regulations including the testing of cooling towers linked to the disease.
“Trust in the government is crucial,” Cuomo remarked. “New Yorkers deserve transparency regarding whether the city has adhered to its own protocols to avert such a tragic outbreak.”
He explained that when faced with a crisis of this nature, his administration implemented significant measures to contain it, alongside new protocols aimed at preventing future occurrences.
Cuomo pointed out that the city simultaneously acts as both a regulator and a landlord for many of the affected buildings, indicating a potential conflict of interest. He stressed that only an independent review could clarify whether proper action was taken or if city inaction worsened the situation.
Some cooling towers that have tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease in this outbreak are located in city-owned facilities like Harlem Hospital and the Central Harlem Sexual Health Clinic, both situated on West 137th Avenue.
Cuomo highlighted that this situation raises concerns about the city’s compliance with laws it is supposed to enforce.
He believes it is essential for the state health department to conduct an independent investigation, as the city is unable to investigate its own actions effectively.
As reported, at least five individuals have died, and more than 100 others have fallen ill due to Legionnaires’ disease. A representative from the state health department noted on Tuesday that city health officials are assisting in managing the outbreak.
The Department of Health (DOH) is reportedly working around the clock to support the city’s response to the outbreak. They have indicated that since August 12th, new diagnoses have ceased, exposure levels have dropped significantly, and all compromised cooling towers have been repaired as they continue to monitor the situation actively.
Governor Hochul mentioned that the state is playing a “supportive role” in this matter, expressing her concern and openness to dialogue about any misconceptions regarding the state’s involvement.
Additionally, Rev. Al Sharpton and civil rights attorney Ben Crump have been engaged with Harlem Hospital and announced a lawsuit against the construction company involved in the outbreak.
