New York City health officials have initiated an investigation into cases of Legionnaires’ disease at a condominium building in the Bronx. The Parkchester South Condominiums is being evaluated due to reports of the Legionella bacteria growing in its hot water supply. This follows a similar outbreak in Central Harlem, where 113 people fell ill and six died after the bacteria was found in cooling towers.
However, officials stress that the new investigation is unrelated to the Harlem cluster and poses no risk to surrounding communities. The health department notes that while Legionella bacteria are common, Legionnaires’ disease is relatively rare. It affects approximately 200-700 people per year among NYC’s 8.5 million residents.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease can resemble those of the flu and include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. Certain groups, such as those over 50 and smokers, are at higher risk. The bacteria spreads through mist in warm, stagnant water and is not transmitted person-to-person.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/legionnaires-cases-bronx-nyc