NEW YORK, N.Y. – New York City health officials are investigating an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease that has sickened 18 people on the Upper East Side, prompting inspections and testing of building cooling towers in an effort to identify the source of the bacteria.
According to public health officials, the reported illnesses are clustered in ZIP codes 10075, 10028, and 10128. The city’s investigation is focused on identifying potential sources of Legionella bacteria, which can grow in improperly maintained water systems and spread through contaminated water vapor.
Cooling towers under investigation
As part of the investigation, the New York City Department of Health is testing cooling towers throughout the affected area for Legionella bacteria. If a cooling tower tests positive, building owners are typically ordered to disinfect the system within 24 hours to reduce the risk of additional exposure.
Legionella bacteria thrive in warm water systems, including cooling towers and certain plumbing systems, particularly during the summer months if maintenance is inadequate. Health officials have not yet identified a confirmed source for the current outbreak.
Who is most at risk
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. The illness is not spread from person to person.
According to public health guidance, adults over age 50, smokers, people with chronic lung disease, cancer patients, and those with weakened immune systems face a higher risk of developing severe illness. Symptoms can include cough, fever, shortness of breath, chills, headaches, muscle aches, nausea, diarrhea, and confusion.
Law firms announce investigation
Following news of the outbreak, The Lange Law Firm and Manhattan attorney Scott Harford announced they are investigating potential legal claims related to the illnesses.
“The scary thing about Legionnaires’ disease is that it spreads through invisible water vapor. You can’t see, taste, or smell the bacteria that cause it,” attorney Jory Lange said in a statement.
Harford noted that many patients require hospitalization and emphasized the importance of preventing outbreaks through proper maintenance of cooling towers and water systems.
What happens next
Health officials continue to collect environmental samples and investigate possible sources of exposure. Additional information is expected as testing is completed and any contaminated cooling towers are identified and disinfected.
Residents in the affected neighborhoods who develop symptoms consistent with pneumonia are encouraged to seek medical attention, particularly those who may be at higher risk for severe illness.
