Harlem Hospital Cooling Tower Among Sites Tied to Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak

A cooling tower at Harlem Hospital was identified as one of 12 sites linked to the city’s recent Legionnaires’ disease outbreak, which has resulted in four fatalities and nearly 100 reported illnesses, according to health officials.

The Department of Health confirmed that additional sites, including the Central Harlem Sexual Health Clinic, the NYC Economic Development Corporation, and the Marshak Science Building at CUNY, also had cooling towers requiring disinfection. Initially, officials declined to specify exact locations, but they later listed ten sites with potential exposure risks. Among these, three towers are located on a single building, with one scheduled for remediation by Friday.

Health authorities emphasized the airborne nature of Legionnaires’ disease, which means the bacteria can reach individuals outside the immediate vicinity of affected buildings. To assist with containment efforts, officials offered five ZIP codes in central Harlem—10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039—as core areas of concern.

Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse urged residents in these areas to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if flu-like symptoms develop. Despite the outbreak being contained, Mayor Eric Adams advised ongoing caution, noting the risk remains for those living or working nearby.

Since July 25, at least 99 cases have been confirmed, with 17 requiring hospitalization. The death toll has risen from three to four. The bacteria responsible for Legionnaires’ disease was found in 11 of the 12 tested towers, with one still to be addressed.

People exposed to water aerosolized from cooling towers may develop symptoms 12 to 14 days after exposure. The disease is contracted through inhaling water droplets containing Legionella bacteria, but it does not spread from person to person. Residents experiencing symptoms are encouraged to seek prompt medical care to ensure early treatment.