New
York, August 2025 — Urgent Action Amid Deadly Legionnaires’ Cluster
A Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Central
Harlem, New York City, has now sickened 99 people and claimed the
lives of four individuals, with 17 hospitalizations confirmed
since July 25, according to the NYC Health Department.
Cooling
Towers Identified as Primary Source
Investigations revealed
contamination in 12 cooling towers across 10 buildings, including
prominent sites like Harlem Hospital, the Central Harlem Sexual
Health Clinic, and CUNY’s Marshak Science Building, situated within
ZIP codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039.
Swift action led to the remediation
of 11 contaminated towers, with the final tower scheduled for cleanup by
Friday.
Health
Officials Urge Vigilance Despite Containment
Acting Health Commissioner Dr.
Michelle Morse confirmed that while the outbreak appears contained and new
case numbers are declining, vigilance remains critical due to the
disease’s 12–14 day incubation period. Residents and workers in affected areas
are urged to seek immediate medical care if flu-like symptoms arise.
Mayor Eric Adams reassured
the public that tap water is safe, and emphasized the decreasing trend
in new infections thanks to coordinated remediation efforts.
Understanding
Legionnaires’ Disease: What You Need to Know
Legionnaires' disease is a serious
form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm,
damp environments such as cooling towers, plumbing systems, and HVAC units.
It spreads through inhalation of aerosolized water droplets—not from person to
person.