NYC health department investigates Legionnaires' cases in East Village
Gothamist • • health
Key Points:
- The city health department is investigating the water supply at the Haven Plaza apartment complex in East Village after two residents tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease within the past year.
- Residents have been advised not to take showers, including cold ones, and to use alternative methods like buckets or hoses for bathing, while cold tap water is safe to drink and use for handwashing with precautions.
- Legionnaires’ disease is caused by inhaling water vapor contaminated with Legionella bacteria, which can grow in plumbing systems and water cooling towers; large outbreaks are often linked to cooling towers, but isolated cases also occur.
- Health officials are collaborating with building management to test the water system and held a meeting with 60 to 70 residents to discuss the situation and safety measures.
- The risk of infection is low for healthy individuals, but those over 50 who smoke, vape, have chronic lung disease, or weakened immune systems are advised to limit exposure to water mist during the investigation.