Water at Parkchester North Condominiums has tested positive for live Legionella bacteria, following four reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease in the complex over the past year, according to sources within the New York City Health Department.
The department of health confirmed that two residents at 1576 Unionport Road were diagnosed in late July. Two additional cases were confirmed at 22 and 28 Metropolitan Oval in late August.
Residents say they were not notified by building management about the illnesses.
“No, I heard about it through News 12 about a month ago,” said John, a longtime resident of the complex.
Other residents expressed concern but said they trust management to act.
“It’s nothing we really can do but try to control it and prevent it,” said Roland, who lives in Parkchester.
Health officials said management is working to repair the plumbing system, but the process could take months.
“Nobody wants to be blindsided by a bug,” John said. “So we just have to worry that the water system is okay.”
Parkchester management declined an interview but said in a statement that resident safety remains its top priority and that the complex is following all health department guidelines.