A deadly disease spreading in South Bronx has taken four lives and has infected 65 others since it was detected last July 10.
All four who succumbed to the Legionnaires' Disease, a severe type of pneumonia, were of old age and were already experiencing health problems as reported by the Health Department of New York City. Of the other victims, 55 were brought to the hospital for much needed medical attention.
Local officials cited that Legionella, the bacteria causing the sickness, can be found in the cooling systems of buildings in South Bronx. Twenty two of the structures in the area were inspected and five of them have emerged positive of the microorganisms. They are the Concourse Plaza Mall, Opera House Hotel, Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center, Streamline Plastics Company, and the Verizon office building. Disinfection has been done in these places and a prevention plan has been required from their management.
Other breeding places for the bacteria may include humidifiers, hot water tanks, and hot tub and plumbing systems. The spread of the disease is through inhalation of the mist, and not from person to person. Public fountains, pools and drinking water remain to be safe though, assured the officials.
As this is not the first time that the city encountered such cases, apprehension among the residents is mainly due to the escalating number of victims, from only 12 in its last outbreak to its current number. Citizens are also concerned with what appears to be a slow reaction from the authorities. Outbreaks commonly happen during early fall or summer.
Health officials have extended their inspection to susceptible areas such as homeless shelters and senior centers. They also urge those who experience the symptoms to immediately see a doctor. The common signs are coughing, fever, diarrhea, confusion, headache, fatigue, muscle pain and loss of appetite, with an incubation period of two to ten days.
Local officials are working for an amendment of the bylaws to require the inspection of cooling towers, while a town hall meeting is also scheduled today between the Mayor's office, local leaders and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, to properly address the situation and to prevent the further spread of the dreaded disease.
