Outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Central Harlem linked to sixth fatality
The city of New York is currently grappling with an outbreak of Legionnaire's disease in Central Harlem. As of the latest updates, 111 people have been affected, and unfortunately, six lives have been lost - the most deaths since a 2015 outbreak in the Bronx that claimed 16 lives.
The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is responsible for the inspections of water cooling towers in the affected area. However, the unit in charge of these inspections has faced a significant challenge, losing a third of its staff since 2022. To address this, the unit has received a 30 percent boost in funding to enhance compliance and public health safety.
Twelve water-cooling towers in Harlem have tested positive for Legionella bacteria, the culprit behind Legionnaire's disease. Among these, nine buildings at the heart of the outbreak had towers that were either behind on required testing or not inspected by the city in the past year.
The acting city Health Commissioner, Dr. Michelle Morse, is working tirelessly to identify the specific origin of the recent outbreak. Through DNA sequencing, she hopes to trace the source of the bacteria and take necessary actions to prevent further spread.
Seven individuals remain hospitalized, down from nine on Wednesday. City health officials have stated that the outbreak is showing signs of abating, offering a glimmer of hope in these challenging times.
Remediation of all 12 towers was completed on August 15. It is essential to note that Legionnaire's disease spreads through contaminated water droplets and vapor from water-cooling towers.
The disease is not transmitted directly from person to person, so it's crucial for the public to remain vigilant and follow safety precautions. This includes washing hands frequently, avoiding inhalation of mist or vapor from coolers, and ensuring that cooling systems are properly maintained.
The city continues to work diligently to contain the outbreak and safeguard the health of its residents. As more information becomes available, updates will be provided to keep the public informed.
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