• Three deaths reported in Legionnaires' disease outbreak in Harlem, NYC.
• At least 64 people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease since July 25.
• Health officials stress the importance of seeking medical attention for symptoms.
• Remediation efforts on cooling towers are underway in the affected area.
• Legionnaires' disease is treatable with antibiotics if caught early.

The outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Harlem, New York City, has escalated to three reported deaths, with at least 64 individuals diagnosed since July 25, according to the New York City Health Department. The affected area spans several ZIP codes, including 10027, 10030, 10035, 10037, and 10039, prompting health officials to issue urgent advisories for residents and workers to watch for flu-like symptoms such as cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and difficulty breathing. Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Morse has urged, "Anyone in these zip codes with flu-like symptoms should contact a health care provider as soon as possible," emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis for effective treatment, as noted by ABC News, The Hill, and Newsweek.

Health authorities have linked the outbreak to environmental sources of Legionella bacteria, particularly stemming from cooling towers. Remediation has been completed for the 11 cooling towers that initially tested positive for Legionella pneumophila. According to the health department, "The likely source of the bacteria causing this pneumonia in the community is a cooling tower in the affected area," which operates by spraying mist that can disperse contaminated water vapor, as detailed by ABC News, The Hill, and Newsweek.

The New York City Health Department's response has included a comprehensive review of disease surveillance, with officials noting, "When we see data—or signals as we call them—of concern, the Department jumps into action." They are continuously monitoring the situation while ensuring that tap water and air in buildings are safe for residents, as stated in reports from ABC News and Newsweek.