Cooling Towers Linked to Legionnaires’ Outbreak in New York City

Speedy Summary

• Legionnaires’ disease outbreak has infected 58 people and resulted in two deaths in New york City’s Central Harlem neighborhood.
• The bacterial illness, caused by legionella pneumophila, is associated with cooling towers that tested positive for the pathogen.
• Legionnaires’ disease is a severe type of pneumonia treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed early.
• Vulnerable groups include those aged 50 or older, smokers (current/former), and individuals with lung or immune system issues.
• Reports suggest about 6,000 cases annually in the U.S., though experts believe some go misdiagnosed as othre types of pneumonia; prevalence increased fivefold from 2000 to 2018 for unclear reasons.
• Infection occurs via inhalation of aerosolized water containing Legionella bacteria; it does not spread person-to-person. Stagnant water between 77-113°F (25-45°C) serves as a breeding ground for the bacterium.
• Cooling towers, air-conditioning systems, spas, and hot tubs are considered critical points of bacterial control to prevent outbreaks. Regulations mandate registration and disinfection protocols for cooling towers in NYC.

Image: A color-enhanced transmission electron micrograph of Legionella pneumophila.
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