Five Facts About Legionnaires' Disease

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) —Legionnaires' disease has been reported in the South Bronx since July 10. Here are the latest numbers:

• There have been a total of 119 reported cases and 12 deaths as of August 12th, 2015.
• 88 individuals were treated and discharged.
• No new cases have been reported since 8/3.
• Those who died all had underlying medical conditions.

New York City's drinking water supply and other water features, like fountains, shower heads and pools, are safe throughout New York City and are unaffected by legionella. Water towers are unaffected by legionella; home air conditioner units are unaffected and walking into air conditioned environments is safe, as well.  More about the Bronx outbreak from the NYC Dept. Of Health.

Is the disease contagious?
No. Legionnaires' disease is not spread from person to person. People only get sick by breathing in water vapor containing the bacteria. People who are sick cannot make others sick.

MORE FROM LEGIONELLA.ORG

Who is at risk?
Groups at high risk include people who are middle-aged or older—especially cigarette smokers—people with chronic lung disease or weakened immune systems and people who take medicines that weaken their immune systems (immunosuppressive drugs).

What are the symptoms of Legionnaires' Disease?
Symptoms resemble other types of pneumonia and can include fever, chills, muscle aches and cough. Some people may also have headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, confusion or diarrhea.

What should I do if I think I have Legionnaires' disease?
If you have symptoms of pneumonia, seek medical attention right away, especially if you have a medical condition that affects your breathing, like emphysema, or if you are a smoker.

What is the treatment for Legionnaires' disease?
The disease is treated with antibiotics. Most people get better with early treatment, although they may need to be hospitalized. Some people may get very sick or even die from complications of the disease.

(Source: Centers for Disease Control)

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