Legionnaires’ Disease Strikes Washington Heights Again, 16 Ill, 1 Dead

For the second time this year, a Legionnaires’ Disease outbreak has struck New York City’s Washington Heights neighborhood, according to the city’s health department. At least 16 people have been sickened one of whom has died. Seven people remain hospitalized.

In July 2018, another Legionnaires’ Disease outbreak in Washington Heights sickened 18 people, killing one of them, according to city health officials. A cooling tower operated by the Sugar Hill development was identified as the source of the July outbreak. Sugar Hill cleaned the tank at that time. The health department has again asked the company to clean and disinfect the cooling tower.

Legionella Bacteria CDC
CDC image of Legionella bacteria.

Legionnaires’ Disease Facts

Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia. It is spread when water droplets contaminated with Legionella bacteria are inhaled. It is not transmitted through person-to-person contact.

Legionella bacteria are often found in water of hot tubs, pools, fountains, spas and the cooling towers, hot water tanks and plumbing or air-conditioning systems of large buildings.

The flu-like symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease usually develop within two to 10 days of exposure of Legionella bacteria. They include:

    • Cough
    • Headache
    • High fever
    • Muscle aches
    • Shortness of breath

People over 50 and those with compromised immune systems are at heightened risk. Health officials urge anyone in the area with these symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.

Legionnaires’ Disease Lawsuit

The Legionnaires’ disease attorneys at Pritzker Hageman represent clients nationwide who have been sickened and those who have suffered the wrongful death of a loved one.  In 2016, our Legionnaires’ team represented more than half of the 23 victims of a Legionnaires outbreak in Minnesota including the family of one person who died.

If you would like a free consultation about a Legionnaires’ disease lawsuit, you can contact our experienced team of Legionnaires’ lawyers with this online form or, reach them in their offices by calling toll-free 1(888) 377-8900.

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Category: Legionnaires' Disease
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