As record-breaking heat scorches much of the U.S., air conditioning has become a vital refuge. But in upper Manhattan, poorly maintained cooling systems have turned lifesaving technology into a public health hazard.
Since July 25, at least 67 people across five ZIP codes in Harlem have contracted Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling Legionella bacteria. Of those infected, 24 were hospitalized and three have died, marking the largest outbreak in New York City in a decade.
The bacteria were found in cooling towers of nearly a dozen apartment buildings. As air conditioning systems circulated air, they inadvertently spread contaminated droplets into the environment.
Climate and Infrastructure at Fault
Experts link the rise in Legionnaires’ disease to climate change and aging infrastructure. The CDC reports a ninefold increase in cases since 2000. Legionella thrives in warm water—between 77°F and 113°F—making poorly maintained cooling systems ideal breeding grounds.
“People are realizing, whether you’re talking about floods or cooling systems, they’re not designed for this,” said Jean Grassman, a public health professor at CUNY.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?
Named after a 1976 outbreak at an American Legion convention in Philadelphia, the disease is not spread person-to-person, but through airborne bacteria from water systems. Symptoms resemble the flu and are often overlooked until severe.
Those most at risk include:
- Older adults
- Smokers
- People with chronic lung conditions like asthma or COPD
The current outbreak is concentrated in central Harlem, a historically Black neighborhood. Experts note that marginalized communities often bear the brunt of such outbreaks due to higher rates of underlying health issues and inadequate infrastructure.
City Response and Recommendations
Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that all cooling towers in the affected ZIP codes—10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039—have been inspected and treated. Residents are urged to monitor symptoms and seek medical care promptly.
Despite the outbreak, officials advise continuing to use air conditioning and water-based appliances, as long as systems are properly maintained.
Dr. Barun Mathema of Columbia University emphasized, “We built these systems. We should be able to maintain them.”
Source: usatoday.com