New York City health officials are investigating a deadly outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Central Harlem that has already claimed one life and left at least 22 others sick.
The NYC Department of Health confirmed that the cluster of cases is concentrated within five zip codes—10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039. Residents and workers in these areas are being urged to seek medical attention if they experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, coughing, headaches, or shortness of breath.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling mist contaminated with Legionella bacteria. While it’s not contagious and the general risk remains low, individuals over 50, smokers, or those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
Officials believe the bacteria stem from a cooling tower in the neighborhood—systems commonly found atop buildings that release mist into the air. That mist, if contaminated, can carry the bacteria deep into people’s lungs. Testing is now underway on all cooling towers in the impacted zone.
Crucially, the city health department reassured residents that this outbreak does not affect the safety of tap water. Drinking, bathing, cooking, and using air conditioning remains safe. The bacteria aren’t connected to the city’s plumbing systems.
The illness can take up to two weeks to manifest symptoms. While most healthy people recover with antibiotics, about 10 percent of those infected die from the disease.
To prevent future outbreaks, the CDC recommends that water systems—especially cooling towers, fountains, and hot tubs—be cleaned and disinfected regularly. Showerheads and faucets not used recently should also be flushed to reduce bacterial buildup.
As health crews test and disinfect local cooling towers, city officials are encouraging vigilance and awareness, especially for Harlem residents in the affected zones.
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