A deadly bacteria-borne illness known as Legionnaire’s disease is on the rise across the United States. The heatwave this summer has exacerbated the problem, making it harder for urban areas to keep up with water quality checks.
Legionella bacteria, often spread through air conditioning units, has sickened over 100 people and killed five in New York City. Climate change is blamed for increasing its prevalence in hot cities like New York and Northeastern states.
This summer’s extreme temperatures have also led to more cases of Legionnaire’s disease in the Midwest. Recently, a nursing home in Michigan discovered Legionella bacteria in its water system, marking one of several recent outbreaks in Ohio as well. As urban areas warm up, these regions may become more susceptible to this niche public health threat.
Climate change is making it easier for Legionnaire’s disease to spread and take hold in new cities. While the outbreak has been largely confined to major metropolitan areas, experts warn that if conditions continue, the disease could expand into smaller towns and communities.
Source: https://www.vox.com/climate/458413/legionnaires-disease-signs-symptoms-cooling-towers-nyc