South Bronx Legionnaires’ disease cluster claims second death

A second death has been confirmed in connection with a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in the South Bronx, New York City. According to NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin, at least 14 people have been sickened by the cluster, with 11 requiring hospitalization.

Preliminary testing identified Legionella bacteria, which causes a severe form of pneumonia, in 10 cooling towers located in the Melrose and Morrisania neighborhoods. Affected sites included Yankee Stadium and the NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln medical facility. In response, authorities ordered the impacted towers to be drained, cleaned, and disinfected; Dr. Martin confirmed on Thursday that all towers that tested positive during initial screening have been disinfected.

Health Department staff have conducted extensive community outreach, speaking with over 1,700 residents and distributing 4,000 pamphlets to help people recognize symptoms and risk factors. Officials advise anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms who has recently visited the 10451 or 10456 ZIP codes to seek medical attention immediately.