At least four cases of Legionnaires’ disease are confirmed in the Highbridge section of the Bronx, New York.
Additional cases have pending test results, according to city health officials, reported The Bronx Times.
The city Department of Health and Mental Hygiene launched an investigation into the disease within the Bronx’s 10452 and 10456 ZIP codes after the first case was confirmed May 9th, reported The Bronx Times.
Health officials add that it is safe for residents to drink water, bathe and use air conditioners.
There are no reported deaths associated with the disease, reported health officials.
“Any New Yorkers with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible,” said city Health Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan, reported The Bronx Times. “Legionnaires’ disease can be effectively treated if diagnosed early, but New Yorkers at higher risk, like adults aged 50 and older, those who smoke or have chronic lung conditions should be especially mindful of their symptoms and seek care as soon as symptoms begin.”
According to the health department, it is still sampling and testing water from all cooling tower systems in the cluster area, but they do not believe the issue is with the plumbing systems, reported The Bronx Times.
This is one of several outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease in the Bronx over the past few years, reported The Bronx Times. One of these outbreaks included three separate incidents in 2015 which infected 153 people and killed 17.
2018 was the latest outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease at Co-Op City in the Bronx, including the death of an elderly resident, reported Legionnaires Disease News.
Those who live or work in Highbridge or surrounding areas with symptoms are encouraged to seek medical attention.
