NEW YORK CITY (WPIX) – The community cluster of Legionnaires’ disease in Central Harlem continues to grow, with a second death reported by the New York City Health Department.
Fifty-eight people have now been diagnosed since July 25.
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella, which thrives in warm water. People can contract Legionnaires’ disease by inhaling water vapor that contains Legionella bacteria.
The cluster has been reported in zip codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, 10039 and bordering communities, according to officials.
Anyone living or working in the area who experiences flu-like symptoms, including a cough, fever, chills, muscle aches or difficulty breathing, should contact a healthcare provider immediately.
Remediation has been completed on the 11 cooling towers that tested positive for Legionella last week, according to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.
“Anyone in these zip codes with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible,” said Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse. “Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older and those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions, should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin.”
The disease can be treated with antibiotics and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
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