Legionnaire’s Disease Outbreak Kills 2, Sickens 31 in New York City

Legionnaire's disease has sickened at least 31 people from the South Bronx in New York City since July 10. Health officials reported that so far the outbreak is responsible for two deaths.

Officials from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene are now investigating the infection and hoping to get to the source of it before it worsens.

"We are concerned about this unusual increase in Legionnaires' disease cases in the South Bronx," Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said in a statement. "We are conducting a swift investigation to determine the source of the outbreak and prevent future cases. I urge anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention right away."

Legionnaire's disease, which is caused by a bacterium known as Legionella, is a severe type of pneumonia that can lead to death, especially in patients with compromised immune systems or underlying health issues. Being middle-aged, older and a smoker can increase one's chances of contracting the disease.

People generally get infected when they inhale small droplets of air or water that contact the bacteria. Common places of contamination include hot tubs, fountains, air conditioners' cooling unit and large plumbing systems.

Symptoms, which can manifest anywhere from two to 10 days of exposure, may range from coughing and shortness of breath to high fever or headaches. Seek immediate medical care if you suspect that you might have been infected.

The disease, which cannot spread via people to people, is treated with antibiotics.