Health officials in New York City have confirmed that 12 cooling towers in Central Harlem tested positive for Legionella bacteria, the cause of the recent Legionnaires’ disease outbreak. The affected sites include government-operated and public service buildings such as a major hospital, a city-run sexual health clinic, and a local university facility.
Sites Under Investigation
The list of locations includes Harlem Hospital, the Central Harlem Sexual Health Clinic, the Marshak Science Building at City College, and a property overseen by the NYC Economic Development Corporation. Officials say that several of these towers had either skipped required quarterly tests or had not been inspected for over a year.
Containment Efforts Show Progress
According to the city’s acting health commissioner, 11 of the 12 contaminated towers have already been treated, with the last remediation scheduled for immediate completion. City leaders have noted a steady decline in new Legionnaires’ cases, suggesting that the outbreak is now under control.
Mayor Eric Adams sought to reassure the public, stating that the air is safe to breathe, while emphasizing that residents should remain alert for symptoms due to the illness’s incubation period.
Public Health Response
Investigators are conducting genetic testing to match bacteria from patients to samples collected from the contaminated towers. The city initially withheld the list of affected buildings to prevent false reassurances and to ensure a thorough investigation.
Health officials are urging anyone in five Harlem ZIP codes to seek prompt medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms. Legionnaires’ disease is treatable with antibiotics when caught early.
Push for Stricter Oversight
In the wake of the outbreak, State Senator Cordell Cleare has called for stronger regulations on cooling tower maintenance and oversight to prevent future incidents.
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