Legionnaires' disease kills 2 in New York's Harlem: Causes, symptoms, and how to stay safe

A Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in New York City’s Harlem neighborhood has claimed two lives and sickened at least 58 people, according to ABC News. The New York City Health Department is urging residents and workers in the area to seek medical attention if they experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, chills, muscle aches, or shortness of breath.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Health officials warn that people over 50, smokers, and those with chronic lung disease or weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. The outbreak is believed to have been caused by the Legionella bacteria being dispersed through a contaminated cooling tower in central Harlem — a common source of such infections.

Cooling towers are used in buildings for temperature regulation and can spread bacteria through water vapor if not properly maintained. City officials are currently testing towers in the area and investigating the outbreak.

What Is Legionnaires' Disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia caused by inhaling Legionella bacteria. Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure and may include:

• Fever and chills
• Dry cough and shortness of breath
• Muscle aches and headaches
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in some cases

While most healthy people exposed to the bacteria don’t fall ill, the disease can be severe in higher-risk individuals. In serious cases, it may lead to lung failure, heart damage, or even death. According to the CDC, about 1 in 10 infected people die from the illness.

How Is It Spread?

Legionnaires' is not contagious — it doesn’t spread from person to person. The bacteria typically grow in warm water environments and spread through mist or vapor, often from:

• Cooling towers
• Hot tubs and humidifiers
• Fountains, pools, and decorative water features
• Showerheads and plumbing systems

Outbreaks are more common in summer, when air conditioning systems are heavily used.

How Is It Treated?

The illness is treated with antibiotics, and early treatment significantly improves outcomes. Most people recover, although fatigue and other symptoms may linger for weeks or even months. In some cases, hospitalization and oxygen support may be required.

Is It Safe to Drink Water?

Yes. The NYC Health Department has confirmed that drinking water, bathing, cooking, and using air conditioning remain safe.

Preventive Measures and Safety Tips

There is no vaccine for Legionnaires’ disease. Prevention mainly involves regular maintenance and cleaning of water systems. To reduce personal risk:

Clean hot tubs, humidifiers, and showerheads regularly
Monitor for flu-like symptoms if you're in an outbreak zone
See a doctor promptly if you feel unwell and fall into a high-risk category
If you live or work in central Harlem and notice symptoms like cough or fever, contact a healthcare provider immediately. If you don’t have a primary care provider, consider visiting urgent care or the ER for evaluation, which may include a chest X-ray or lab tests.