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Second death reported in Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in New York City
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- A second death has been reported in the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, with a total of 72 people infected, according to the New York City Health Department.
- The first death was announced on Friday, and the second on Saturday, prompting condolences from Health Commissioner Dr. Alister F. Martin.
- Legionnaires’ disease is caused by bacteria found in warm, stagnant water, often linked to cooling towers in large buildings, which are being tested and disinfected by property owners.
- Although the exact source of the outbreak has not been identified, a sustained decline in new cases suggests the exposure source has likely been eliminated.
- The disease is treatable, but the CDC notes a mortality rate of about 10% due to complications from Legionnaires’ disease.
