Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak in New York City: Prevention and Symptoms

An outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in New York City has led to five deaths and 82 diagnoses linked to the Upper East Side, according to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. As of July 21, eight patients remain hospitalized, but no new cases have been reported in the last six days.

Doctors recommend several ways to reduce the risk of exposure to the disease. Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia usually spread by water droplets containing Legionella bacteria, not from person to person.

Sources of Exposure

Common infection sources include contaminated water systems, such as cooling towers, hot tubs, or plumbing. It can also occur on cruise ships and in spas. Dr. Dana Mordue of New York Medical College explains infection generally occurs when water droplets are aerosolized and inhaled.

Symptoms and Treatment

Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease include cough, shortness of breath, fever, muscle aches, and headaches, according to the CDC. Diarrhea, nausea, and confusion may also occur. Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure, and the illness is often treated with antibiotics. While the mortality rate is low for healthy individuals, older adults, smokers, and those with weakened immune systems face higher risks.

Prevention Measures

The CDC recommends several methods to prevent the spread of Legionnaires’ disease:

• Maintain building water systems through comprehensive water management programs.
• Clean and disinfect cooling towers regularly.
• Prevent stagnant water by maintaining proper water flow and flushing infrequently used pipes.
• Keep water temperature and disinfectant levels suitable to inhibit bacterial growth.

Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are essential for anyone exposed and developing symptoms. Dr. Mordue advises those at higher risk, such as older individuals, to seek medical help promptly.

Melissa Rudy, senior health editor at Fox News Digital, contributed to this report. For further information, contact [email protected].