Three people have died thus far in the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on the Upper East Side in Manhattan, according to the Gothamist. Additionally, there have been 74 confirmed infections as part of the outbreak, although there may be others who have yet to be identified. If you live in the area and have experienced the symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease, it is important to get medical attention and get tested as soon as possible.
Three People Confirmed Dead in Upper East Side Outbreak
As of July 20, there have been three confirmed deaths in the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on the Upper East Side, with 74 confirmed infections and at least 51 people who were hospitalized. These infections were found primarily in the 10028, 10075 and 10128 area codes, which includes Carnegie Hill and Yorkville. In total, 76 buildings were found to have tested positive for the presence of Legionella, the bacteria that causes the disease.
How Negligence May Have Contributed to the Outbreak
Legionnaires’ disease is most common during the summer months, when the warm, humid weather creates ideal conditions for the growth of Legionella. However, landlords are supposed to test their water supplies, including cooling towers, to catch potential outbreaks early, and they are supposed to perform appropriate remediation as soon as it is detected.
Unfortunately, a shocking number of landlords failed to uphold this basic responsibility, with many failing to do any testing at all. As a result, many people were sickened with Legionnaires’ disease when they might have otherwise been okay.
Remaining Vigilant for Legionnaires’ Disease Symptoms
While no new infections have presented themselves in a week, that does not mean the outbreak is over, as symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease can present up to fourteen days after exposure. The disease causes flu-like symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and muscle aches. Only laboratory testing can confirm if it is Legionnaires’, or another type of infection.
What You Should Do if You Get Sick
If you live in the area affected by the outbreak and experience the above symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention and get tested for Legionnaires’ disease. You should also speak to a lawyer with experience handling Legionnaires’ cases. They can review the circumstances of your case, and help you get compensation for the harm you have suffered.
If you or someone you know has been sickened or injured as the result of someone else’s negligence, contact the New York personal injury lawyers at the Katter Law Firm. We will help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a consultation, contact us at 212-809-4293, or visit our contact page.