Health officials in New York City are investigating a Bronx apartment complex after two residents tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease.
The city health department initiated an assessment of the Parkchester North Condominiums after reporting that two residents were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease within a span of 10 months.
The Legionella bacteria have been detected in the building’s hot water system, discovered after an investigation of its engineering systems by officials, according to a statement from the NYC Health Department.
The department mentioned that it is collaborating with the building for “extensive remediation,” a process that could last for months or even years. Meanwhile, the Health Department has shared recommendations with residents on how to safely use their water supply while minimizing the risk of Legionnaires’ disease.
Over in Harlem, at least six deaths have occurred and over 100 people have recently fallen ill in connection with a Legionnaires’ cluster affecting the area over the summer.
A lawsuit filed last week claims that two construction companies compromised safety, leading to a “completely preventable” outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Harlem.
Legionnaires’, a form of pneumonia, is caused by the bacterium Legionella, which proliferates in warm water. Symptoms usually manifest between two and 10 days following exposure and can include headache, muscle pain, shortness of breath, cough, and fever.
It is not transmitted from person to person and is treatable with antibiotics, health officials say.
