Legionnaires' Disease is Spreading Thanks to a Perfect Storm of Conditions

New York City is experiencing its largest Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in years, with at least 108 cases and five deaths, traced to contaminated cooling towers. Legionnaires’—a severe pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria—thrives in warm water and spreads through inhaled mist, making urban infrastructure particularly vulnerable.

Public health experts note rising cases across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, with climate change exacerbating risk by creating hotter, more humid conditions that favor bacterial growth. Officials emphasize prevention, regular maintenance of cooling systems, and awareness of environmental risk factors, underscoring the need for vigilance in protecting communities from this preventable disease. Read the full article in USA Today here.