From ABC7 New York · · 1m 20s
Bronx residents press officials on Legionnaires' outbreak
A South Bronx outbreak has residents questioning cooling tower checks, city inspections, and how fast officials can stop exposure.
In brief
A South Bronx outbreak has residents questioning cooling tower checks, city inspections, and how fast officials can stop exposure. Residents should seek care right away for flu-like symptoms while the city traces and disinfects Legionella-positive cooling towers. Originally reported by ABC7 New York.
Residents demand answers
At a Tuesday night town hall, Bronx residents pressed city health officials about a Legionnaires' disease outbreak affecting two South Bronx ZIP codes.
Testing worries rise
Debra Myers, who lives in an affected area and is at higher risk, questioned whether building owners are meeting cooling tower testing rules.
“We don't know if they're testing these buildings or not.”
Ten sites inspected
Officials are inspecting 10 addresses that tested positive for Legionella bacteria. Yankee Stadium and Lincoln Hospital were among the named locations.
All sites disinfected
Health Commissioner Alister Martin said the city has disinfected the positive sites and is moving fast to remove the source of exposure.
“move quickly, move aggressively”
Inspection rules questioned
New York City requires cooling tower maintenance, but city inspections happen annually. Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson said that schedule may need to change.
“I think we have to revisit this conversation”
Symptoms need care
The outbreak has revived memories of a deadly 2015 South Bronx cluster. Officials say anyone with flu-like symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
At a glance
Residents should seek care right away for flu-like symptoms while the city traces and disinfects Legionella-positive cooling towers.
