Written By: N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe | Published : July 29, 2025 5:59 PM IST
After several cases of Legionnaire's disease have been identified in New York City's Central Harlem over the weekend, residents are advised to exercise caution.
The city health authorities are on high alert and have launched an inquiry about the fast-spreading disease.
The Department of Health, New York City, reported to have state, as of July 25, five people have been diagnosed with the severe Legionnaire's disease in the Manhattan neighbourhood, and test results for other suspected cases are pending.
In a statement, Dr. Toni Eyssallenne, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, suggests anyone in New York who has flu-like symptoms must immediately visit a healthcare professional.
"Legionnaire's disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early," Eyssallenne stated. "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."
Legionnaire's disease is a severe type of pneumonia caused by a bacterium called Legionella. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an individual can contract this waterborne pneumonia illness when they breathe in mist that contains the Legionella bacterium. So far, there are no reports of direct human-to-human transmissions.
"The most common form of transmission of Legionella is inhalation of contaminated aerosols from contaminated water," the World Health Organization (WHO) explains.
"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."
The CDC states that the signs and symptoms of Legionnaire's disease are similar to those of other types of pneumonia, such as cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, shortness of breath, and other symptoms, such as confusion, diarrhoea, or nausea, can also occur.
As per the public health agency, the CDC, the best way to reduce the risk of Legionnaire's disease is by controlling the growth and spread of Legionella.
To help control the spread of waterborne pneumonia, the CDC advises following a water management programme.
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