Second person dies of Legionnaires’ disease as New York City cases decline sharply

July 19, 2026 - 23:31

A second person has died from Legionnaires' disease in New York City, even as health officials report a sharp decline in new cases. The outbreak, which has sickened dozens, is believed to be linked to contaminated cooling towers in the Upper East Side neighborhood.

City health authorities confirmed the latest fatality but have not released details about the victim. The first death was reported earlier this month. While the number of new infections has dropped significantly in recent days, officials warn that the risk is not yet over.

Several prominent buildings in the affected area have taken action. The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim Museum, along with other Upper East Side structures, have completed cleaning and disinfection of their cooling towers. These systems, which circulate air in large buildings, are considered the most likely source of the bacteria.

Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by inhaling mist or vapor containing the Legionella bacteria. It is not spread from person to person. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, and muscle aches. Older adults, smokers, and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.

Health officials continue to monitor the situation and urge anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention. The city has also expanded testing of cooling towers across the neighborhood to identify any remaining sources of contamination.