The outbreak of “Legionnaires’ disease” in the Bronx claimed the life of a second person, New York City health officials announced yesterday when confirming additional infections.
According to the latest report, 24 diagnosed cases and 4 hospitalizations have been linked to a cluster involving two codes postcards in the Highbridge neighborhood and surrounding township communities: 10452 and 10452. That’s more than the 19 cases in the previous announcement and reflects diagnoses made since May 3 , health officials said.
The two people who died have not been identified. It was only said that they were over 50 years old and had health risk factors for a serious illness, highlighted NBC News.
Legionella pneumophila or “legionnaire’s disease” is a type of non-contagious pneumonia that can be treated with antibiotics if detected early. Otherwise it can become fatal, especially for vulnerable people.
Adults who have been in the affected area since early May with flu-like symptoms, fever, cough or shortness of breath they should seek immediate medical attention. Given the ongoing spread of COVID, people seeking care should be tested in addition to an evaluation for Legionnaires’ disease, according to officials.
What is known so far? Four cooling towers tested positive for the presence of Legionella pneumophila, the type of bacteria that causes this disease. The disinfection of those towers was immediately ordered.
“We are saddened to hear about the death of a person who contracted legionnaires”, said the commissioner of Health of New York City, Dr. Ashwin Vasan, in a statement after the first death. “Health Department staff are working to ensure buildings in the outbreak area receive treatment and conditions are remedied quickly. While most people exposed to the bacteria do not get sick, Legionnaires’ disease can cause serious illness or be fatal for those most at risk, including people with pre-existing chronic health problems.”
“This is why it is crucial that you seek medical attention as soon as you experience flu-like symptoms,” added Vasan.
Legionella bacteria grow in warm water. Infections occur as a result of breathing water vapor that contains it. Each year an average of 200 to
is reported. Legionnaires’ disease cases in NYC.