New York City has officially declared the deadly legionnaires’ disease outbreak in central Harlem over, nearly three weeks after the initial cases were reported. On Friday, city health officials confirmed that there have been no new cases among residents or workers in the affected area since August 9.
As of the latest update, there have been a total of 114 confirmed cases of legionnaires’ disease, with 90 individuals hospitalized. Tragically, the outbreak resulted in seven fatalities, with six patients still receiving treatment in hospitals. In a statement released on Friday, New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed relief at the decline in cases but emphasized the need for continued vigilance. “Today marks three weeks since someone with symptoms was identified, which means New Yorkers should be able to breathe a sigh of relief,” he stated. “However, our job here is not done.”
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the legionella bacteria. This bacteria is commonly found in water systems, including showerheads, sink faucets, hot tubs, decorative fountains, large plumbing systems, and cooling towers. The disease can spread when individuals inhale mist or vapor containing the bacteria or accidentally swallow contaminated water, which can then enter the lungs — a process known as aspiration.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), healthy individuals typically do not become ill after exposure to legionella. However, certain groups are more vulnerable, including current or former smokers, individuals aged 50 and older, and those with specific underlying health conditions. Symptoms of legionnaires’ disease can develop anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure and may include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, shortness of breath, confusion, diarrhea, or nausea.
Following the outbreak, health officials conducted an investigation that traced the source of the bacteria to cooling towers located atop the city-run Harlem Hospital and a nearby construction site managed by the city. To combat the spread of the disease, all facilities that tested positive for legionella underwent thorough cleaning and disinfection as mandated by city officials.
In response to the outbreak, Michelle Morse, New York City’s acting health commissioner, stated, “As the city’s doctor, my thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted by the spread of legionella. Our hearts are with the families who lost a loved one.” She also announced that the city is collaborating with building owners on future measures to protect the health and safety of Harlem residents and prevent future outbreaks.
In light of the outbreak, the Adams administration has proposed several new initiatives aimed at enhancing public health safety. These include:
Expanding the capacity of the health department to inspect the city’s cooling towers. Requiring building owners to conduct legionella testing every 30 days during the cooling tower operation period, down from the current 90-day requirement. Enhancing the health department’s sampling capacity for proactive monitoring of building cooling tower systems. Maintaining contracts to increase response capacity during future public health challenges.These measures are aimed at improving the city’s ability to detect and respond to future clusters of legionnaires’ disease, ensuring that public safety remains a top priority for New Yorkers.
