Two Legionnaires’ disease cases identified at Queens apartment complex
New York City health officials reported two residents of North Shore Towers in Queens tested positive for Legionnaires’ disease and issued precautionary guidance for at-risk tenants.
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene confirmed that two residents of the North Shore Towers in Queens have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease, prompting an investigation of the building’s water system. The department began distributing letters to tenants on Friday evening, advising individuals who smoke, have chronic respiratory conditions, or are over 50 years old to avoid taking showers in their apartments until the inquiry is completed.
"The health department urges residents to seek medical attention if they develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, muscle aches or cough," said Chantal Gomez, a department spokesperson.
The cases follow recent Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and in the South Bronx, which were traced to rooftop cooling towers. In contrast, the Queens incidents appear to be isolated, and inspectors have not yet detected Legionella bacteria in the building’s plumbing. Health officials noted that the disease can spread through contaminated water vapor from showerheads or faucets but emphasized that drinking water remains safe and person-to-person transmission does not occur. They also stated there is no risk to the surrounding community.
The department’s notice highlighted that most occupants are unlikely to become ill, and it recommended that anyone experiencing symptoms contact a medical provider promptly.