| New York City health officials are navigating multiple, distinct clusters of Legionnaires’ disease, including an ongoing outbreak on the Upper East Side and a separate, severe event in Harlem. While investigators continue to trace the environmental sources of the bacteria, city data shows a rising number of infections and a focus on building maintenance protocols. |
Upper East Side Outbreak and Cooling Tower Scrutiny
The current outbreak, which the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene began tracking on July 2 after two initial infections, has now resulted in at least 67 cases and dozens of hospitalizations. Health officials confirmed on Friday that the outbreak has claimed its first life. Authorities have not released specific information regarding the identity or age of the deceased, nor have they provided details on when or how that individual fell ill.
Much of the investigative scrutiny is focused on the air-conditioning systems atop large buildings. Cooling towers—devices containing water and a fan used to cool large structures—can release water vapor carrying Legionella bacteria if not properly maintained. The city reports that tests have identified either living or dead Legionella bacteria in cooling towers on more than 75 Upper East Side buildings. These locations include prominent museums, private schools, and pricey apartment houses. While officials state it is not yet clear which, if any, of these specific towers contributed to the outbreak, all affected buildings were ordered to clean, drain, and disinfect their cooling towers.
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The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has isolated the outbreak to a localized cluster on the Upper East Side. Residents living or working in zip codes 10028, 10128, and 10075 are urged to remain vigilant. As of the latest updates, 49 victims have required hospitalization. City records indicate that 34 people have been discharged, while 15 individuals remained hospitalized as of Monday night.
Detection at The Ardsley and Public Health Guidance
The scope of bacterial detection has expanded beyond the initial cluster. For the first time, Legionella bacteria were detected across the park at The Ardsley, a posh building located at 320 Central Park West, where one-bedroom apartments rent for close to $1 million. Unlike the cooling tower-related cases, this detection involved the building’s hot-water system. According to the West Side Rag, the building has since disinfected its system.
Health officials provide clear guidance regarding how the disease spreads. Legionnaires’ disease, a form of pneumonia, is caused by Legionella bacteria, which thrive in warm water environments. The bacteria are typically spread when commercial rooftop cooling towers produce a fine water mist or vapor that people breathe in. It does not spread person-to-person like the flu or COVID-19, and individuals cannot contract the disease from drinking local tap water. It is considered safe to shower, take a bath, wash dishes, and use home air conditioning units.
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According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the disease is treatable but kills about 10% of patients. Residents are encouraged to monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
The Harlem Outbreak
Separately, New York City officials announced a fifth death on Monday in connection to a distinct Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem. That outbreak has resulted in 108 cases since it began weeks ago. As of the most recent reports, 14 people remained hospitalized in relation to the Harlem cluster. The New York City Health Department confirmed the newly reported death had been under investigation for some time and our team was able to confirm this death as part of the cluster today.
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All 12 cooling towers in Central Harlem that tested culture-positive for live Legionella bacteria were fully drained, cleaned, and disinfected, with the final remediation completed on a Friday. Mayor Eric Adams previously revealed that one of the buildings connected to the Harlem outbreak was Harlem Hospital. Other locations identified by the city include:
- BRP Companies, Lafayette Development LLC, 2239 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Boulevard
- BVK, 215 West 125th Street
- Commonwealth Local Development, 301 West 124th Street
- CUNY – City College Marshak Science Building, 181 Convent Avenue
- Harlem Center Condo, 317 Lenox Avenue
For those concerned about exposure or symptoms, the recommended next step is to consult a qualified medical professional for an evaluation.
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