In a follow-up on the Legionnaires' disease in the Upper East Side neighborhoods of Carnegie Hill and Yorkville, New York City health officials report 23 cases, including 17 hospitalizations as of July 6. No deaths have been reported.
The NYC Health Department says this is not an issue with any building's plumbing system. Residents the following ZIP codes (10028, 10128, and 10075) can continue to drink tap water, bathe, shower, cook, and use your air conditioner at home.
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia. It is caused by bacteria (Legionella) that grow in warm water. Legionnaires’ disease causes flu-like symptoms, and complications from the disease can be serious and even fatal, if left untreated.
People who breathe in water vapor (mist) that contains Legionella bacteria can get sick.
Most people who are exposed to the bacteria do not develop Legionnaires’ disease. Illness usually occurs after high or repeated exposure, especially in people who are at increased risk.
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Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious — you cannot get it from someone else. You cannot get Legionnaires’ disease by drinking water, cooking, or using air conditioning. The bacteria that cause Legionnaires’ disease does not spread through cooled air from air conditioners.
Alpha-gal syndrome, or Red Meat Allergy
You are at an increased risk for Legionnaires’ disease if you:
Are age 50 or older
Smoke or vape
Have a chronic lung disease
Have a weakened immune system
Take medicines that weaken your immune system
Legionnaires’ disease symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, and cough. People may also have headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, confusion, or diarrhea.
If you have these symptoms, seek medical attention. It is especially important for people at increased risk for Legionnaires’ disease to seek care right away. Tell your health care provider you are worried about Legionnaires’ disease.