Legionnaires’ Outbreak Turns Deathly In New York City: Fourth Fatality Confirmed, 17 Hospitalized

The outbreak in New York City began in July, which affected dozens of people with severe Legionnaires' disease. The health department confirmed that 17 others are hospitalized as of Friday.

Legionnaires' Outbreak In New York City: Amid the outbreak of a severe type of pneumonia caused by a bacterium called Legionella in New York City, a fourth fatality was confirmed on Thursday. According to reports, the Legionella bacteria were found in 12 cooling towers on 10 buildings, which included a city-run hospital and a sexual health clinic. The city health authority said that as of now, 11 cooling towers have been sanitised, and the last one is scheduled for cleaning by Friday.

The outbreak in New York City began in July, which affected dozens of people with severe Legionnaires' disease. The health department confirmed that 17 others are hospitalized as of Friday.

Dr. Toni Eyssallenne, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, in a statement previously suggested that anyone in New York who has flu-like symptoms must immediately visit a healthcare professional. He said, "Legionnaire's disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early. But New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older, those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions, should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin."

What Is Legionnaires' Disease?

Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia, but a more severe form, caused by a bacterium called Legionella. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anyone can contract this waterborne pneumonia illness when they breathe in the mist that contains the Legionella bacterium.

The World Health Organization (WHO) explains, "The most common form of transmission of Legionella is inhalation of contaminated aerosols from contaminated water. Sources of aerosols that have been linked with transmission of Legionella include air conditioning cooling towers, hot and cold water systems, humidifiers and whirlpool spas.

"Infection can also occur by aspiration of contaminated water or ice, particularly in susceptible hospital patients, and by exposure of babies during water births."

Signs And Symptoms Of Legionnaire's Disease

The signs and symptoms of Legionnaire's disease are similar to other types of pneumonia, which include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, shortness of breath, and individuals in severe cases may experience confusion, diarrhoea, or nausea.

Locations Of Cooling Towers

1. BRP Companies, Lafayette Development LLC, 2239 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd
2. BVK, 215 West 125th Street
3. Commonwealth Local Development, 301 West 124th Street
4. CUNY City College Marshak Science Building, 181 Convent Avenue
5. Harlem Center Condo, 317 Lenox Avenue
6. NYC Economic Development Corporation, 40 West 137th Street
7. NYC Health Department Central Harlem Sexual Health Clinic, 2238 Fifth Avenue
8. NYC Health + Hospitals Harlem Hospital, 506 Lenox Avenue
9. NY Hotel Trades Council Harlem Health Center, 133 Morningside Avenue
10. Wharton Properties, 100 West 125th Street (3 of 8 towers)

The city officials told a leading media outlet, "Residents can continue to drink water, bathe, shower, cook and use their air conditioner."

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