New York City health officials are investigating a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in the South Bronx that has resulted in one death and four additional infections.
Key facts
- •The outbreak is concentrated in the South Bronx, specifically ZIP codes 10451 and 10456.
- •Health officials have confirmed five total cases, including one fatality.
- •The city has issued a health alert advising providers to screen patients for symptoms if they have visited the area since late August.
- •Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious and is treated with antibiotics.
- •This is the second community cluster identified in New York City in recent months, following an Upper East Side outbreak in July.
New York City health officials have launched an investigation into a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in the South Bronx neighborhoods of Melrose and Morrisania. The outbreak has caused one death and sickened four others. This cluster follows a separate, recently concluded outbreak of the illness on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
Investigation and Response
The city’s health department is currently testing samples from cooling towers in the affected area, specifically ZIP codes 10451 and 10456. Building owners are required to drain, clean, and disinfect any towers that test positive for Legionella bacteria. Health commissioner Alister F. Martin stated that investigators are working to identify further cases, and community health workers are canvassing the neighborhood to provide information.
Symptoms and Transmission
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia caused by breathing in mist or water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria. The bacteria thrive in warm water systems, including cooling towers, hot tubs, and plumbing. Symptoms include fever, chills, cough, and muscle aches. While the disease is not contagious, it requires medical treatment with antibiotics.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by The Guardian Health.
