Fourth Death in New York City Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak

NEW YORK — Health officials confirmed Thursday that a fourth person has died in the New York City Legionnaires’ disease outbreak that has sickened dozens in Central Harlem since late July. Seventeen people have been hospitalized so far.

The Legionella bacteria, which cause the severe pneumonia known as Legionnaires’ disease, were detected in 12 cooling towers across 10 buildings — including a city-run hospital and a sexual health clinic. Remediation has been completed on 11 towers, with the final cleanup scheduled for Friday.

Understanding the Disease and Outbreak

Legionnaires’ disease develops when Legionella bacteria grow in warm water and spread through building water systems, particularly cooling towers that use water and fans to regulate building temperatures.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), symptoms typically appear two to 14 days after exposure and may include cough, fever, muscle aches, headaches, and shortness of breath.

Health officials have traced the Harlem outbreak to cooling towers, a common source in urban environments, and have been working to ensure all contaminated systems are disinfected.

City Response and Public Warning

Dr. Michelle Morse, New York City’s acting health commissioner, said new case numbers have started to decline — a sign that “the sources of the bacteria have been contained.” Still, she urged anyone living or working in Central Harlem to seek medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms.

Legionnaires’ disease is not spread person-to-person, but vulnerable individuals — especially older adults, smokers, and those with weakened immune systems — face higher risks of severe illness or death.