See also EpiNews as of 7 August 2025. The NYC Health Department is currently investigating a community cluster of Legionnaires' disease in Central Harlem (ZIP codes 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039). As of August 19, there are: 108 confirmed cases, 5 deaths, 14 currently hospitalized.
Investigations are ongoing.
Legionella multiply especially in hot water systems, humidifiers, cooling towers, whirlpools and hydrotherapeutic facilities at water temperatures below 50°C.
Particularly at risk of severe illness are people older than 50, smokers, people with chronic lung disease diabetes, or weakened immune system such as transplant recipients and tumor patients.
The risk to most people in the affected area is low. If you live or work in the area and have flu-like symptoms, see a health care provider right away. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath.