NYC Probes 2-Case Legionnaires' Cluster on Upper East Side, Tests Cooling Towers
Updated
Updated · WABC-TV · Jul 3
NYC Probes 2-Case Legionnaires' Cluster on Upper East Side, Tests Cooling Towers
3 articles · Updated · WABC-TV · Jul 3
Summary
Two confirmed Legionnaires' cases in ZIP codes 10028 and 10128 prompted New York City to investigate a likely Upper East Side cluster, even though officials usually wait for three confirmed infections.
Health teams are testing cooling towers across Carnegie Hill and Yorkville because past outbreaks have been tied to Legionella bacteria spread through contaminated water mist.
Additional possible cases are under review, with confirmatory test results pending, and officials said no deaths have been reported.
Dr. Alister Martin urged anyone who lived, worked or visited the area since late June to seek care for fever, cough or breathing trouble; providers have been alerted and community outreach starts this weekend.
Legionnaires' disease is a treatable form of pneumonia spread by inhaling contaminated water vapor—not person to person—and the city said tap water, air conditioners and public facilities remain safe to use.