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Upper East Side experiencing cluster of Legionnaires' with at least 18 cases
ABC7 New York • • health
Key Points:
- Health officials in New York City are investigating a cluster of 18 confirmed Legionnaires' disease cases in Manhattan's Upper East Side neighborhoods of Carnegie Hill and Yorkville, with no deaths reported so far.
- The likely source of the bacteria is believed to be a cooling tower in the area, which sprays mist containing Legionella bacteria, though building plumbing systems are not affected.
- Many of the patients are hospitalized, with several in critical condition in the ICU, while one patient has been discharged after recovery, according to NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin.
- The outbreak covers a one-square-mile area between East 74th and East 96th streets, and residents experiencing flu-like symptoms who have been in the area since late June are urged to seek medical attention promptly.
- Legionnaires' disease can be fatal, especially for immunocompromised individuals or those with chronic lung conditions, with a mortality rate of about 10% overall and higher in healthcare settings, according to the CDC.
