Gothamist
A non-profit newsroom, powered by WNYC.
Gothamist
Listen Live
News
2 Dead, Dozens Sickened By Legionnaire's Disease Outbreak In The Bronx
By
Rebecca Fishbein
Published Jul 29, 2015
Modified Jul 29, 2015
Share
FacebookTwitterRedditEmail
Never miss a story
Email address
By submitting your information, you're agreeing to receive communications from New York Public Radio in accordance with our Terms .
By
Rebecca Fishbein
Published Jul 29, 2015
Modified Jul 29, 2015
Share
FacebookTwitterRedditEmail
We rely on your support to make local news available to all
Make your contribution now and help Gothamist thrive in 2026. Donate today
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
The Health Department reported today that at least two people have died and dozens have been sickened in the Bronx by Legionnaire's disease, an airborne bacterial infection that's similar to pneumonia.
According to authorities, 31 cases have been reported in the South Bronx since July 10th of this year, with High Bridge, Morrisania, Hunts Point and Mott Haven getting hit particularly hard. The Health Department has been unable to pinpoint the cause of the outbreak, but cautioned that the disease is often traced to water systems like hot tubs, humidifiers, hot water tanks, and large air-conditioning systems.
Two people have died of the illness so far. Authorities warn that middle-aged and elderly people are most at-risk for Legionnaire's disease, particularly if they are cigarette smokers—other high-prone groups include those with chronic lung disease or anyone who is immunocompromised.
“We are concerned about this unusual increase in Legionnaires’ disease cases in the South Bronx,” Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said in a statement. “We are conducting a swift investigation to determine the source of the outbreak and prevent future cases. I urge anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention right away.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, early symptoms include high fever, chills and a cough—muscle aches and headaches are also common. Symptoms begin about 2 to 10 days after a person is exposed the the bacteria, and mimic those of pneumonia.
Tagged
doh
health department
Legionnaires disease
the bronx
Rebecca Fishbein
Read more
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
MORE news
Early Addition: Pedicabs keep blasting 'Empire State of Mind' outside Broadway theaters during the show
Because the City Council is trying to crack down, here are your early links: Diddy allegedly getting massages and liquor in prison, the Financial District is a reality show set, the Russian and Turkish Baths are full of naked celebrities and more.
By
James Ramsay
Published Sep 30, 2026 at 8:51 a.m. ET
LES stabbing sends 3 men to the hospital as NYPD search for the top hat-wearing suspect
The attack happened out front a deli on Bowery and Delancey Streets.
By
Brittany Kriegstein
News
LES stabbing sends 3 men to the hospital as NYPD search for the top hat-wearing suspect
The attack happened out front a deli on Bowery and Delancey Streets.
By
Brittany Kriegstein
The end nears for Jake's Dilemma. What about other Upper West Side shops?
By
Willow Higgins
No kids and a lot of bass: Brooklyn Children's Museum draws flak for loud roof parties
By
Walter Wuthmann
Bronx man indicted for murder in fatal bodega shooting
By
Giulia Heyward
Never miss a story
Catch up on the most important headlines with a roundup of essential NYC stories, delivered to your inbox daily.
Sign upEmail address
By submitting your information, you're agreeing to receive communications from New York Public Radio in accordance with our Terms .