A deadly outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease has killed three people and sickened 70 in New York City.
A third death was confirmed in Harlem. The city’s health department issued warnings for people experiencing flu-like symptoms.
The Legionella bacteria is believed to be spread by vapor droplets from cooling towers or water tanks on top of buildings in New York City.
Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia, is caused by the Legionella bacteria. It is found in contaminated water in central air conditioning systems and cooling towers in office buildings, hotels, schools, and hospitals.
Legionella bacteria is also found in hot water heaters in residential homes if the temperature is set to 120°F or below. Set your hot water heater temperature to at least 140°F to kill bacteria in the tank.
Symptoms include high fever, cough, lung congestion, chest pain and weakness. Symptoms begin within 2 to 14 days after inhaling the bacteria vapor in the air.
People with weak immune systems, smokers, the elderly, and those with chronic lung conditions are at increased risk for the infection.
Contact your health care provider or go to the ER in NYC if you are experiencing upper respiratory symptoms.
