New York hit by fatal LD outbreak
29th July 2015
USA: Authorities are currently testing water from cooling towers and other potential sources after an outbreak of legionnaires’ disease in the South Bronx area of New York.
The New York Health Department has revealed that there have been two deaths amongst 31 cases of the disease reported since July 10. New Yorkers with respiratory symptoms, such as fever, cough, chills and muscle aches, have been advised to seek prompt medical attention.
The Health Department says it is actively investigating these deaths and their relationship to the outbreak. This includes testing water from cooling towers and other potential sources in the area to determine the source of the outbreak.
“We are concerned about this unusual increase in Legionnaires’ disease cases in the South Bronx,” said health commissioner Dr Mary Bassett. “We are conducting a swift investigation to determine the source of the outbreak and prevent future cases.”
