Health officials identify Legionnaires’ disease cluster in the Bronx
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene says it has identified and is investigating a Legionnaires’ disease cluster in the Highbridge area and bordering communities.
News 12 Staff
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May 20, 2022, 9:58 PM
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Updated 705 days ago
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The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announced Friday that it has identified and is investigating a Legionnaires’ disease cluster in the Highbridge area and bordering communities.
Four people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ since May 9 and four other test results are pending, according to the Health Department. No deaths have been reported.
“Any New Yorkers with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan in a statement by the Health Department.
“Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older, those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin.”
Individuals can contract Legionnaires’ by breathing in water vapor containing Legionella bacteria.
In its news release, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene states:
“Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia that is caused by the bacteria Legionella, which grows in warm water. Symptoms resemble other types of pneumonia and can include fever, chills, muscle aches, and cough. Most cases of Legionnaires’ disease can be traced to plumbing systems where conditions are favorable for Legionella growth, such as cooling towers, whirlpool spas, hot tubs, humidifiers, hot water tanks, and evaporative condensers of large air-conditioning systems.
Individuals only get sick by breathing in water vapor containing Legionella bacteria, and the disease is not transmitted from person to person. Individuals at higher risk include those ages 50 and above, cigarette smokers, and people with chronic lung disease or compromised immune systems. People living or working in the area who are experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention with a primary care provider or seek urgent care.”
