Harlem's Legionnaires' Disease Outbreak Continues

The NYC Health Department confirmed today it is investigating a community cluster of Legionnaires' disease in Central Harlem, New York City, New York. 

As of August 11, there are 90 confirmed cases, three related fatalities, and 17 people are currently hospitalized with Legionnaires' disease in NYC.

The Health Department says the risk to most people in these ZIP codes (10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039) is low. 

This community outbreak is not related to a building's hot or cold water supply. Residents in these ZIP codes can continue to drink water, bathe, shower, cook, and use their air conditioner.

The Health Department has sampled and tested water from cooling towers in the investigation zone. Any cooling towers with initial positive results for Legionella bacteria have completed the treatment required by the Health Department. We are continuing to monitor and let buildings know if additional treatment is needed.

A building plumbing system is separate from a cooling tower system.

If you live or work in the area and have flu-like symptoms, see a health care provider right away or visit NYC Health + Hospitals or call 311 or 844-NYC-4NYC (844-692-4692).

Legionnaires' disease is not spread from person to person. You cannot get Legionnaires' disease from someone who is sick. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. Infected people usually develop symptoms 2 to 10 days after exposure, though it can be as long as two weeks.

As of August 12, 2025, there are no vaccines available to prevent this disease.