2 Legionnaires' Cases On The UES Prompt City Investigation

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — New York City's health inspectors are investigating after a second case of Legionnaires' disease was reported in the same Upper East Side apartment building complex in the past 12 months, according to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

The Cherokee apartment complex, located between East 77th Street and East 78th Street between York Avenue and Cherokee Place, is having its plumbing system tested after two tenants contracted Legionnaires' disease, the health department said.

Anytime two people in the same apartment building contract Legionnaires' disease within 12 months, it triggers an automatic investigation by the health department, the city said.

"The NYC Health Department is evaluating buildings within The Cherokee complex after two residents were diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease within a 12-month period," an NYC Health Department spokesperson said. "The NYC Health Department is working with the buildings’ management to test the water to confirm whether or not Legionella bacteria is present in the buildings’ plumbing system."

Legionnaires’ disease, a type of pneumonia, is caused by bacteria called Legionella that thrive in warm water environments, like cooling towers and plumbing systems. Over the summer, Legionnaires' disease sickened more than 100 people in Harlem and killed seven people, after 12 buildings tested positive for Legionella bacteria.

As of Friday, the health department said it is not yet known whether Legionella bacteria have been found in the Cherokee.

The disease spreads by inhaling contaminated vapor, but is not contagious from person-to-person, officials said. Based on the pattern of cases, the department says there is no indication of a broader community cluster or ongoing risk.

Residents were advised to avoid inhaling water vapors and to switch from showers to baths, one resident said.

The building owner is required to hire a qualified water system management team to analyze the water system and carry out treatment if needed. City officials said testing the hot water supply at the tower could take two weeks. In the meantime, the health department met with residents of the Cherokee on Wednesday night

"When we are conducting a building evaluation like this one, there is no risk to the surrounding community," the health department spokesperson said. "We are in close communication with the building residents and owners to ensure everyone has accurate information to keep them safe."

The management of the Cherokee did not respond to a request for comment. This article will be updated when they do.

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