January 18, 2026
NEW YORK, NY — Legionnaires’ disease is not just a summer threat, and recent testing at a Harlem apartment building underscores why cooling towers must be monitored and maintained throughout the year, according to a New York City attorney.
On January 13, 2026, city health officials began evaluating two of five cooling towers at 3333 Broadway for the presence of Legionella bacteria. The New York City Department of Health has said test results could take up to two weeks.
The investigation highlights a common misconception that Legionnaires’ disease only poses a risk during warmer months, said attorney Ronald Katter of the Katter Law Firm.
“Legionnaires’ disease doesn’t follow the calendar,” Katter said. “If cooling towers and building water systems aren’t properly maintained, people can be exposed at any time of year — including the middle of winter.”
Legionnaires’ disease is contracted by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. While outbreaks are more frequently reported in the summer, experts say indoor environments such as apartment buildings, hospitals, and hotels can create conditions that allow the bacteria to spread year-round.
“People living in closed or shared settings can be exposed through everyday water sources like faucets, showers, or hot water systems,” Katter said. “Even outdoors, unseasonably warm or humid conditions can increase the risk.”
Katter said the Harlem case should serve as a reminder to building owners and property managers that routine inspections and cleaning of cooling towers are essential — not optional — regardless of the season.
“Waiting until warmer weather to take this seriously puts lives at risk,” he said. “Preventive maintenance is the best defense.”
Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia, is contracted by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. Cooling towers, hot tubs, and other warm-water systems are common sources. According to the CDC, most outbreaks are preventable with proper water-system maintenance and monitoring.