A deadly outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease has claimed four lives in New York City’s Harlem neighborhood, with 99 confirmed cases reported. The city’s Department of Health has identified 12 cooling towers as the source of the bacteria, and most have been rectified. Residents are warned to be cautious when breathing mist from these towers.
The disease is rare, affecting less than 18,000 hospitalizations annually in the US. It spreads through airborne mist and thrives in stagnant water. Elderly people and smokers are at high risk of serious complications. Mayor Eric Adams reassures residents that air quality is safe and drinking water is secure.
Residents experiencing symptoms are urged to seek medical attention immediately. The city council warns that this is a serious situation requiring prompt action, not casual precautions like seeking ginger ale for relief.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3dp0v8dd8ro