Archive · 22 Aug 2025
Legionnaires' Outbreak in Harlem: Six Deaths Reported
A Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Central Harlem, NYC, has caused six deaths.
The disease, a severe form of pneumonia, has infected 111 people.
It's caused by bacteria found in cooling towers that release mist into the air.
Health officials are investigating the source, as the infection rate has declined recently.
Older adults and smokers are at higher risk.
Most cases can be treated with antibiotics, but about 1 in 10 infections can be fatal.
A 2015 outbreak in the Bronx prompted new regulations.
Six deaths have been reported in a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Central Harlem, NYC.
There are 111 confirmed cases, with the last diagnosis on August 13th.
Twelve cooling towers across ten buildings have tested positive for legionella bacteria.
The outbreak was identified in late July after people showed pneumonia-like symptoms.
The disease causes severe pneumonia; older adults, smokers are most at risk.
- Who
- The NYC Health Department and affected individuals.
- What
- An outbreak of Legionnaires' disease.
- When
- The outbreak was identified in late July; the last diagnosis was on August 13th.
- Where
- Central Harlem, New York City.
- Why
- Caused by legionella bacteria, often spread through cooling towers.
- Confirmed Cases
- 111
- Deaths
- 6
- Positive Cooling Towers
- 12
- Buildings Affected
- 10
- Last Diagnosis
- August 13
- Highest Risk Groups
- Older adults and smokers