Legionella bacteria linked to Legionnaires’ disease have been detected at 10 cooling towers in the South Bronx, including one near Yankee Stadium, New York City health officials reported Sunday. The announcement follows a cluster of at least nine confirmed illness cases in the area, which has resulted in one death and three hospitalizations to date.
The city’s Health Department identified the affected towers at multiple locations across the Bronx: 820 Concourse Village West; 234 East 149th Street; 1 East 161st Street; 470 East 161st Street; 1265 Franklin Avenue; 567 Melrose Avenue; 3339 Park Avenue; 1160 Teller Avenue; 890 Washington Avenue; and 1085 Washington Avenue. The list includes the cooling tower adjacent to Yankee Stadium and a tower at the NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln medical facility.
Following initial polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, which detected the presence of Legionella bacteria DNA, officials ordered comprehensive cleaning and disinfection protocols for the identified towers. Authorities stressed that detection of bacterial DNA does not confirm which specific tower or towers may be the source of the outbreak, as PCR tests cannot distinguish between live and dead bacteria, nor establish a direct link to patient exposure.
The Health Department emphasized ongoing investigations to determine the source of the cluster and mitigate further risk. In response to the findings, the towers are being drained, scrubbed, and treated with disinfectants to reduce Legionella proliferation.
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing Legionella bacteria, commonly linked to contaminated cooling towers, hot tubs, and plumbing systems.
City health officials continue surveillance and urge residents, particularly those in the Bronx, to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms consistent with Legionnaires’ disease, such as cough, fever, muscle aches, or shortness of breath. The department also advises building owners and managers to adhere strictly to maintenance and disinfection protocols to prevent bacterial growth.
Investigations into the South Bronx cluster are ongoing, with public health authorities monitoring for additional cases and working to identify and control the outbreak’s source.