Can You Catch Legionnaires' Disease at Home? Doctors Explain the Risks
Summary
A Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Manhattan's Upper East Side has sickened 82 people and caused five deaths. The disease comes from bacteria that grow in warm water systems and spread through tiny water droplets people breathe in, not from person to person.Key Facts
- The outbreak in Manhattan is linked to contaminated cooling towers.
- 82 people have become ill, with eight still in the hospital and 56 discharged.
- No new cases were reported for six days as of July 21, but the situation is still being monitored.
- Legionnaires' disease is caused by bacteria called Legionella, which grow in warm water.
- People get sick by breathing in small water droplets containing the bacteria.
- The disease can cause mild fever or serious lung infections such as pneumonia.
- Legionella bacteria can grow in cooling towers, showers, hot tubs, decorative fountains, and plumbing systems.
- Household risk exists if water heaters are set too low or water sits unused for a long time, but regular use and proper maintenance reduce risk.
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