First death reported in NYC’s legionnaires disease outbreak as number of infected rises
Key Points:
- The first death has been reported in the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on New York City's Upper East Side, according to health officials.
- As of Thursday night, 67 cases have been confirmed, an increase from 63 cases previously reported.
- Twelve individuals remain hospitalized due to the outbreak linked to Legionella bacteria found in 76 cooling towers on the Upper East Side and one on the Upper West Side.
- Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria and can be treated effectively with antibiotics if detected early.
- Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin expressed condolences to the deceased’s family and withheld further personal details out of respect for privacy.