There have now been 90 confirmed instances of legionnaires’ illness in central Harlem, and 15 persons are at present hospitalized battling the illness, the town’s well being division introduced this week.
Three folks have already died within the outbreak, which has affected zip codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037 and 10039, in line with the NYC Well being Division.
“If you live or work in the area and have flu-like symptoms, see a health care provider right away,” the division wrote in Tuesday’s replace. “Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches and shortness of breath.”
Beforehand, 81 instances had been introduced. The three deceased victims haven’t been publicly recognized.
Legionnaires’ illness is most harmful to folks aged 50 and older, people who smoke, folks with lung illness and anybody with a weakened immune system.
Metropolis investigators recognized 11 suspicious cooling towers whereas trying into the outbreak, however all of these towers have since been remediated, the well being division mentioned.
Moreover, the cooling towers recognized as doable sources of legionnaires’ illness are separate from constructing plumbing methods, which means it stays protected to drink water, bathe, bathe, prepare dinner and use air conditioners.
“We are continuing to monitor and let buildings know if additional treatment is needed,” the division introduced Tuesday.
Legionnaires’ illness is a type of pneumonia attributable to legionella micro organism. The micro organism thrive in sure water circumstances, however the illness can’t be unfold from individual to individual.
Initially Revealed: August 13, 2025 at 12:51 PM EDT
