City health officials have confirmed 14 cases of Legionnaires’ disease on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
The infections cluster in ZIP codes 10028, 10128 and 10075, covering portions of Yorkville and Carnegie Hill. At least one patient has lived, worked, or recently visited the 10075 area.
Residents who spent time along the east side of Central Park between East 76th and East 97th Streets are urged to monitor for flu‑like symptoms, including fever, cough, chills and muscle aches.
The health department acknowledges the work of epidemiologists, water ecologists and community health workers in keeping residents informed and safe.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which can be inhaled from contaminated water droplets and may be fatal without prompt treatment.
Investigators are testing cooling towers in the affected area as a potential source, though no definitive origin has been identified.
The cluster was first identified on Thursday when only two cases were confirmed; the investigation area has since expanded as more illnesses were reported.
The commissioner emphasized early detection and swift action, noting that more work remains as the source of exposure cases is determined.
The mayor confirmed that the outbreak is not linked to building plumbing or indoor air conditioning units and that residents can safely use tap water, shower, cook and use home AC.
Health officials will provide further updates as additional information becomes available.
Those who have lived, worked or visited the area since late June and are experiencing flu‑like symptoms are advised to seek medical care promptly.
