NEW YORK (AP) — A fifth person has died following a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in New York City, health officials confirmed Monday night.
The outbreak, centered in Central Harlem, has sickened dozens since it began in late July. As of Monday, 14 people remained hospitalized, according to the city’s health department.
Tests revealed Legionella bacteria in 12 cooling towers across 10 buildings, including a city-run hospital and a sexual health clinic. Officials said all the towers have since undergone remediation.
Legionnaires’ disease is a form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water and spread through building water systems. In this case, the outbreak has been linked to cooling towers that circulate water and air to regulate building temperatures.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, symptoms usually develop within two to 14 days after exposure and can include cough, fever, headaches, muscle aches, and shortness of breath.
City health officials advise anyone living or working in the affected area to seek medical care if they experience flu-like symptoms.
