NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Initial analysis revealed Legionella DNA present in a cooling tower at Yankee Stadium, as authorities in New York City continue to examine a cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in the South Bronx. By Tuesday night, the city had verified 11 cases, including one fatality, with three individuals still hospitalized. The New York City Health Department identified 10 cooling towers with preliminary positive PCR results in ZIP codes 10451 and 10456, covering parts of Melrose and Morrisania.
During the investigation, city health officials collected samples from 24 cooling towers, with 10 testing positive via PCR, including the tower at Yankee Stadium located at 1 E. 161st St. PCR testing detects genetic material from Legionella bacteria but cannot confirm whether the bacteria are alive. To determine viability, further laboratory culture tests are in progress to establish whether live bacteria were present in the sampled towers.
The Yankees stated that no confirmed cases within the current cluster have been linked to Yankee Stadium. They added that their cooling towers, installed in 2024, are regularly checked for water quality. According to the team, a Legionella test conducted on Aug. 20 was negative. Weekly water quality and bacteriological indicator tests were also performed on Aug. 26, Sept. 2, and Sept. 9, prior to the city collecting its PCR sample on Sept. 11.
Cooling towers subjected to cleaning after initial positive results
Following the detection of Legionella DNA in preliminary tests, the New York City Health Department mandated comprehensive cleaning and disinfection of all 10 towers with positive PCR outcomes. The remediation was required to be finished by Sept. 14. On Tuesday, Health Commissioner Alister Martin confirmed that all towers with concerning results had been properly cleaned and disinfected. The Yankees reported that the cooling tower at Yankee Stadium was drained, cleaned, and disinfected on Sept. 13, after the city notified them of the preliminary findings.
Legionnaires’ disease is caused by Legionella bacteria, leading to pneumonia in those infected. Infection typically occurs through inhaling tiny water droplets containing the bacteria. The disease generally does not transmit between individuals. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and breathing difficulties. City officials advised anyone living, working, or visiting the South Bronx area since late August to see a healthcare provider if they develop flu-like symptoms.
Ongoing investigation into South Bronx Legionnaires’ cases
Health authorities reported that eight of the 10 towers with positive initial results adhered to the city’s 31-day Legionella testing requirement. Two sites had yet to submit the necessary testing data when the findings were announced. The investigation involves cooling towers in the affected South Bronx neighborhoods, including those at Yankee Stadium and other properties. Experts are analyzing laboratory results and epidemiological data to identify the potential source of exposure related to the confirmed illnesses.
The Health Department assured residents in ZIP codes 10451 and 10456 that they can continue drinking tap water, showering, and using air conditioning unless otherwise advised. They also stated that being indoors near the 10 cooling towers does not pose an additional risk. The Yankees confirmed that city health officials have not asked the team to delay upcoming games at Yankee Stadium. Meanwhile, authorities are maintaining surveillance on confirmed cases as laboratory testing proceeds on samples gathered during the South Bronx investigation.