Precautions for residents after 2 cases of Legionnaire's found at Bronx apartment complex
BRONX, New York (WABC) -- The New York City Department of Health is investigating the water systems at a Bronx apartment complex where two people contracted Legionnaires' Disease.
A meeting was held earlier this week, alerting people who live at Tracey Towers on West Moshulu Parkway.
Tenants are still able to use and drink the water, but those who are at a higher risk of getting Legionnaires' are being advised to take additional precautions:
- Don't take a shower, even a cool shower-since it could create water vapor (mist). Instead, take a bath, but fill the tub slowly. Try to minimize your time in the bathroom while the tub is filling.
- It's fine to wash dishes, but fill the sink slowly to avoid creating mist.
- It's fine to drink cold water from the tap, but start with cold water when heating water for tea, coffee or cooking.
- Tenants do not need to wear a mask.
- It is important to continue to wash your hands.
RELATED: FACTS: What is Legionnaires' disease?
Legionnaires' disease is a form of bacterial pneumonia, with the elderly and those with other medical issues at the highest risk. The disease is potentially fatal, but it can be effectively treated with an early diagnosis.
People contract Legionnaires' disease by breathing in water vapor that contains bacteria. It is not transmitted from person to person.
Adults with flu-like symptoms, cough, fever or difficulty breathing should contact a physician immediately.
Legionnaires' disease is a type of pneumonia that is caused by the bacteria Legionella, which grows in warm water. Symptoms resemble other types of pneumonia and can include fever, chills, muscle aches, and cough. Most cases of Legionnaires' disease can be traced to plumbing systems where conditions are favorable for Legionella growth, such as cooling towers, whirlpool spas, hot tubs, humidifiers, hot water tanks, and evaporative condensers of large air-conditioning systems.
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