There are now 14 confirmed cases of Legionnaires’ disease on the Upper East Side (UES), NYC officials said, as the city continues its investigation into the recent outbreak that began in the area on July 2.
At least one of those cases is a person who lives, works, or has visited the zipcode 10075, which includes the UES and Yorkville, NYC Health Commissioner Alister F. Martin, MD, said on July 5. He added that 10075 is the third zipcode, along with 10028 and 10128, to be included in the investigation zone.
Those who visited the east side of Central Park are also being cautioned.
“We advise people to monitor for flu-like symptoms and to contact a healthcare provider immediately if symptoms occur,” Martin said. “Additionally, out of an abundance of caution, anyone who visited the east side of Central Park from East 76th to East 97th Street since late June, should also be monitoring their symptoms.”
The city announced the first two cases of Legionnaires’ disease on Thursday. However, that number grew to 10 by Friday in Carnegie Hill and Yorkville.
Symptoms of the disease include fever, chills, muscle aches and cough.
Past community clusters have been caused by Legionella bacteria spreading through the air from the mist produced by cooling towers. The health department said it is actively investigating this community cluster of the disease by sampling and testing water from all cooling tower systems in the area.
Building owners with any cooling towers that test positive for the presence of Legionella bacteria will be directed to conduct full remediation.
Legionnaires’ disease is a type of pneumonia. People get sick when they breathe in the bacteria. It is not contagious and can be treated with antibiotics when caught early, the health department said.
“Legionnaires’ disease is deadly but can be effectively treated if diagnosed early,” Martin said. “New Yorkers at higher risk, including anyone who is 50 and older, those who smoke, or people with chronic lung conditions, should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin.”
NYC experienced a similar Legionnaires’ disease outbreak last year in Harlem.
People living or working in the affected area who are experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention with a primary care provider or seek urgent care, the health department reiterated.
