Harlem Legionnaires' Outbreak Kills Two

A Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Harlem, United States — New York City, has resulted in two deaths and sickened at least 58 people. The United States — New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene identified the outbreak, which began on July 25, across several ZIP codes (10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, 10039) and neighboring communities. Officials suspect cooling towers as the source, with 11 testing positive for legionella bacteria; these have since been cleaned and cleared. Acting Health Commissioner Michelle Morse and Deputy Chief Medical Officer Toni Eyssallenne have urged residents, especially those over 50 or with chronic conditions, to seek immediate medical attention for flu-like symptoms. The disease, a severe form of pneumonia, is not spread person-to-person and is treatable with antibiotics if diagnosed early. This outbreak follows previous incidents in United States — New York City, including a major one in the Bronx in 2015 that led to new regulations for cooling towers by the United States — New York City.