1 Dies From Legionnaires’ On The Upper East Side, Officials Say

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY —One person has died from the Legionnaires’ disease outbreak on the Upper East Side, officials said on Friday.

“I am saddened to report that one person has died in connection with the Legionnaires’ disease community cluster on the Upper East Side,” Dr. Alister Martin, New York City’s health commissioner, said. “My deepest condolences are with their loved ones, and out of respect to their personal privacy, we will not be releasing any additional information on the individual.”

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This is the first death in the outbreak that started on July 2. Since then, 67 people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease, and 12 people are currently hospitalized in association with this cluster.

On the Upper East Side in ZIP codes 10028, 10128, and 10075, 76 buildings have been ordered to disinfect their cooling towers after Legionella bacteria was found during tests.

“This news is heartbreaking, and the individual’s loved ones are in my thoughts during this incredibly difficult time,” Councilmember Julie Menin said. “As this outbreak continues to impact our community, we must remain focused on the health and safety of our neighbors.”

This is a developing story and will be updated. For questions, email Miranda.Levingston@Patch.com