A fifth person has died in a Legionnaires' disease outbreak in New York City, with 108 cases reported since late July, according to the city's health department. The disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, spreads through inhaling contaminated water vapour.
Twelve cooling towers in Central Harlem tested positive for the bacteria, which thrives in warm water and becomes airborne when water turns to steam. The outbreak affected health centres, businesses, and a college in the neighbourhood.
Health officials said the number of new cases is declining, suggesting the outbreak may be contained. However, investigations continue to identify the exact source among the cooling towers.
High-profile attorneys Ben Crump and Reverend Al Sharpton plan to announce a lawsuit on Wednesday against a construction company they allege caused the outbreak. Details of the deceased and those still ill have not been released.
Legionnaires' disease symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, and severe headaches. It can lead to lung or kidney failure, septic shock, and death. Annually, about 1,000 Americans die from the disease, with 8,000 to 10,000 infections.
