Legionnaire’s Disease Outbreak in New York City
Introduction to the Outbreak
A second person has died and 58 others have fallen ill amid an outbreak of legionnaires’ disease wreaking havoc in the Harlem area, New York City health officials announced.
It marks an increase from previous figures released by the New York City Health Department on Thursday, when there was a total of 22 reported cases and a single death linked to the growing cluster.
Health Officials’ Response
In a statement on Monday, acting New York City health commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse urged anyone in the area suffering from flu-like symptoms to “contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible.”
“It is especially important for people at higher risk — including those ages 50 and older, cigarette smokers, and people with chronic lung disease or compromised immune systems — to get care if they have symptoms,” Morse added.
What is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the bacteria legionella, which grows in warm water. According to the New York City Health Department, it “can be caused by plumbing systems where conditions are favorable for legionella growth, such as cooling towers, whirlpool spas, hot tubs, humidifiers, hot water tanks and evaporative condensers of large air-conditioning systems.”
And while it cannot be passed from person to person, it can be contracted by breathing in any contaminated water vapor.
Investigation and Repairs
The New City Department of Health is investigating the cluster.
Since the outbreak was initially detected on July 25; crews have repaired “the 11 cooling towers with initial positive screening results showing the presence of Legionella pneumophila, a type of bacteria that causes Legionnaires’ disease.”
Conclusion
The outbreak of legionnaires’ disease in New York City’s Harlem area has resulted in two deaths and 58 reported cases, with health officials urging those with symptoms to seek medical attention. The cause of the outbreak is still under investigation, but it is believed to be related to contaminated water sources. Residents are advised to take precautions and seek medical help if they experience any flu-like symptoms.
FAQs
What is legionnaires’ disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the bacteria legionella, which grows in warm water.
How is legionnaires’ disease contracted?
It can be contracted by breathing in any contaminated water vapor.
Can legionnaires’ disease be passed from person to person?
No, it cannot be passed from person to person.
What are the symptoms of legionnaires’ disease?
The symptoms of legionnaires’ disease are flu-like and include cough, fever, and shortness of breath.
Who is at higher risk of contracting legionnaires’ disease?
People at higher risk include those ages 50 and older, cigarette smokers, and people with chronic lung disease or compromised immune systems.
What is being done to investigate and contain the outbreak?
The New City Department of Health is investigating the cluster, and crews have repaired the 11 cooling towers with initial positive screening results showing the presence of Legionella pneumophila.
