The New York Department of Health declared that the recent outbreak of legionellosis, which occurred in Manhattan's Upper East Side, has ended after causing seven deaths and 84 hospitalizations. This announcement was made in an official statement, indicating that the incubation period for new cases has ended.
Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin emphasized the importance of a rapid and transparent government response.
“All New Yorkers deserve a government that responds quickly, acts transparently, and never hesitates to protect public health,” he said in the statement.
Outbreak Source
Health authorities have linked the cases to bacteria found in cooling towers. More than 180 cooling towers were tested, and 83 buildings tested positive for Legionella bacteria. Orders were issued to the owners to empty, clean and disinfect these towers, which were followed in all cases.
“We continue to enforce New York City's rigorous cooling tower regulations and hold accountable any building owner who fails to meet their obligation to keep New Yorkers safe,” the statement said.
Legionnaires' disease is not spread from person to person and can be treated with antibiotics if detected early. Although most people exposed to the bacteria do not become ill, vulnerable groups, such as people over 50, smokers and those with weakened immune systems, are at greater risk.
Most people exposed to Legionella bacteria do not get sick, but they can get sick after high or repeated exposure, CNN reported in the statement.
Symptoms of legionellosis
Legionnaires' disease usually begins with flu-like symptoms, but can quickly progress to more serious pneumonia. The most typical signs are high fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, cough, shortness of breath, and often diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or confusion.
How is it different
Unlike a common cold, legionellosis usually causes high fever, more intense digestive and respiratory symptoms, and may cause confusion or chest pain. Compared to other pneumonias, a guiding fact is the combination of high fever with cough, respiratory distress and gastrointestinal symptoms, especially after exposure to aerosolized water such as showers, jacuzzis or air conditioning systems.
Helpful Hints
When to seek care
If there is a high fever with cough and difficulty breathing, or if confusion, chest pain, vomiting or diarrhea appear, it is advisable to seek medical attention soon because it may be pneumonia that requires treatment.
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