The outbreak of “Legionnaires’ disease” in the Bronx has claimed the life of a second person, New York City health officials announced yesterday as they confirmed additional infections.
According to the latest report, 24 cases diagnosed and 4 hospitalizations have been linked to a cluster affecting two ZIP codes in the Highbridge neighborhood and surrounding township communities: 10452 and 10456. That’s more than the 19 cases in the previous announcement and reflects diagnoses made since May 3, they said. health officials.
The two people who died have not been identified. They only said they were over 50 and had health risk factors for serious illness, he said. NBC News.
Legionella pneumophila or “legionnaire’s disease” It is a type of non-contagious pneumonia. It can be treated with antibiotics if caught early. Otherwise it can turn fatal, especially for vulnerable people.
Adults who have been in the affected area since early May with flu-like symptoms, fever, cough, or shortness of breath they should seek immediate medical attention. Given the ongoing spread of COVID, people seeking care should be tested in addition to an evaluation for Legionnaires’ disease, according to officials.
What is known so far? Four cooling towers tested positive for the presence of Legionella pneumophila, the type of bacteria that causes this disease. The disinfection of those towers was immediately ordered.
“We are saddened to hear of the death of a person who contracted Legionnaires’ disease,” New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan said in a statement after the first death. “Health Department staff are working to ensure buildings in the outbreak area receive treatment and conditions are remedied quickly. While most people exposed to the bacteria don’t get sick, Legionnaires’ disease can cause serious illness or be fatal for those most at risk, including people with pre-existing chronic health conditions.”
“That’s why it’s crucial that you seek medical attention as soon as you experience flu-like symptoms,” Vasan added.
Legionella bacteria grow in warm water. Infections occur as a result of breathing water vapor that contains it. An average of 200 to 500 cases of Legionnaires’ disease are reported in NYC each year.
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