New York City is experiencing an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Central Harlem, causing three deaths and dozens of illnesses. Rising cases nationally are attributed to several environmental and human factors, including increased awareness and climate change. The bacterium Legionella, which causes Legionnaires' disease, thrives in plumbing and water-cooling systems. New York has seen historic outbreaks, with one in 2015 infecting over 130 people and causing 16 deaths, leading to tighter regulations. Still, the city reports hundreds of new cases annually, including significant numbers in low-income neighborhoods with high rates of underlying health issues.
Legionnaires' disease is a form of pneumonia contracted by inhaling mist containing Legionella bacteria, which often grows in plumbing and water-cooling systems.
Environmental factors such as climate change and increased awareness, alongside human factors, contribute to the rising number of Legionnaires' disease cases nationwide.
The worst Legionnaires' outbreak in New York City history occurred in 2015, infecting over 130 people and resulting in 16 deaths, prompting stricter regulations.
Despite strong regulations, hundreds of Legionnaires' cases continue to be reported annually in New York City, indicating persistent challenges in controlling outbreaks.
Collection
[
|
...
]