Harlem, New York, Becomes Legionnaires' Disease Cluster, 58 Test Positive, 2 Die

JAKARTA - At least two people have died from Legionnaires' disease in a cluster that has spread in the Harlem area of New York City, United States (US).

The New York City Department of Health (MOH) reported that 58 cases of Legionnaires' disease were detected in Harlem last week, with two patients being declared dead on Thursday, July 31.

"People living or working in these areas with flu-like symptoms, such as cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, or difficulty breathing, should contact a healthcare provider immediately," the MOH said in a statement, as quoted by ABC News on Tuesday, August 5.

Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which grow in warm water. Direct or close contact with an infected person does not cause transmission, but inhalation of droplets containing Legionella bacteria can.

"It is especially important for people at high risk -- including those 50 years of age and older, smokers, and people with chronic lung disease or weakened immune systems -- to seek care if they develop symptoms," the statement said.

The New York Department of Health has been investigating the cluster and stated that initial screenings have tested positive for Legionella pneumophila, the cause of Legionnaires' disease, in the air conditioning systems of 11 buildings in Harlem.

"Anyone in the area exhibiting flu-like symptoms should contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible," said Acting New York Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse.

"Legionnaires' disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, such as adults 50 and older and those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions, should pay close attention to their symptoms and seek care as soon as they appear," she continued.

Michelle Morse explained that Legionnaires' disease can be caused by plumbing systems with conditions favorable for Legionella growth, such as cooling towers, whirlpool spas, hot tubs, humidifiers, hot water tanks, and evaporative condensers in large air conditioning systems.

This respiratory illness is named after an outbreak that occurred during a Pennsylvania American Legion convention held at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia in July 1976.

The bacteria believed to be the cause are found in soil and grow in water, such as air conditioning ducts, storage tanks, and rivers.

Officials had not released further details about the two people who died as of Tuesday, August 5.