Dangerous bacteria outbreak in New York: One dead and nine ill

An outbreak of Legionella bacteria in the South Bronx, New York, has resulted in one death and eight additional cases of Legionnaires' disease. Initial tests detected Legionella bacteria in ten cooling towers, but authorities emphasize that it has not yet been proven that these are the source of the outbreak. Three patients remain hospitalized.

An outbreak of Legionella bacteria in the South Bronx, New York, has led to the death of one person and illness in eight others, diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease. The epidemiological investigation, focusing on the Melrose and Morrisania neighborhoods, found preliminary evidence of Legionella bacteria in ten out of 24 cooling towers tested. Authorities have ordered cleaning and disinfection of the systems but stress that PCR tests do not prove the cooling towers are the source of the outbreak, as they cannot distinguish between live and dead bacteria. Culture tests for live bacteria are expected within about two weeks. Three patients remain hospitalized, four have been discharged, and one additional person did not require hospitalization. Residents who have been in the area since late August are asked to seek medical evaluation if they develop flu-like symptoms. The article provides background on how the bacteria is transmitted, symptoms, antibiotic treatment, and at-risk populations, citing CDC mortality data.