4th death reported in NYC Legionnaires’ disease outbreak

A fourth person has died in a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in New York City, according to health officials. A total of 76 cases have been reported.

The New York City Health Department reported the fourth death on Monday. Seven people remain hospitalized, 53 have been discharged and 12 did not require hospitalization.

The outbreak is affecting the Carnegie Hill and Yorkville neighborhoods on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Legionella bacteria was first detected in the area about three weeks ago.

“We believe we have now eliminated the source of exposure,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani said on Monday. “Regardless, we will continue to inspect cooling towers and aggressively enforce health laws.”

Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by inhaling mist containing Legionella bacteria, which grow in warm water. Common sources in community outbreaks include cooling towers, hot tubs and spray fountains.

The disease does not spread from person to person. Symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, coughing and difficulty breathing.

Health officials said the outbreak is not linked to any building’s plumbing system. Residents can continue to drink tap water, bathe, cook and use home air conditioners.

People who have lived, worked or visited the affected area since late June should seek medical care if they develop symptoms, the health department said. Those at increased risk include people 50 and older, smokers and people with chronic illnesses or weakened immune systems.