23 Jul 2018 | 11:13 PM UTC
US: Ongoing Legionnaires’ disease outbreak leaves one dead in Manhattan
Legionnaires’ disease outbreak infects at least 22 people, resulting in one associated death, in Manhattan (New York City) as of July 20; further spread of the disease possible
Event
An outbreak of Legionnaires' disease has infected at least 22 people and left one person dead in the lower Washington Heights neighborhood of Manhattan (New York City) as of Friday, July 20. The further spread of the disease is possible in the coming days.
Context
Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia caused by a bacterial infection in lungs that is contracted by breathing contaminated water vapor or dust. It is most likely to affect the middle-aged or the elderly, particularly those with a history of smoking or chronic lung disease. The most common symptoms are cough, shortness of breath, high fever, headaches, and muscle pains.
Advice
Individuals in New York City are advised to monitor updates to the situation and adhere to instructions issued by authorities. Individuals experiencing the above symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, especially if part of a demographic at high-risk for the disease.
