A cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases has been reported in Central Harlem, prompting health officials to investigate and sample water from affected areas. Since Friday, five people have been diagnosed with the disease, but no deaths have been reported.
The New York City Department of Health is testing and sampling water from cooling tower systems in ZIP codes 10027, 10030, 10035, and 10037. Residents who have flu-like symptoms or difficulty breathing are advised to contact their healthcare provider.
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which grows in warm water. Symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, and cough. The disease is not contagious and can be treated with antibiotics when caught early. Health officials urge those at higher risk, such as smokers and people with chronic lung conditions, to seek care promptly.
Residents in affected areas expressed surprise and concern about the lack of notification from health officials. Central Harlem residents are being urged to take precautions, especially older adults who may be more vulnerable to the disease.
For more information on Legionnaires’ disease, visit the city’s website at nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/legionnaires-disease.page.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/legionnaires-disease-cluster-central-harlem-july-2025