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 leading 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 tanks in residential homes that are set to 120-degrees or below. Hot water heaters should be set to at least 140-degrees to kill the bacteria.
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.
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