JULY 6, 2026
New York City officials say water systems are safe as Legionnaires' disease case count reaches 14
New York City health officials reported 14 confirmed cases of Legionnaires' disease as of Sunday, with the affected area expanded. Mayor Zohran Mamdani stated that home water systems remain safe for drinking, showering, and cooking. Health Commissioner Alister Martin said case numbers are likely to rise as additional testing continues.
New York City's health department confirmed 14 cases of Legionnaires' disease as of Sunday, expanding the geographic area of concern. Mayor Zohran Mamdani said in a post on X that the outbreak is not linked to residential plumbing or indoor air conditioning units, and residents are safe to use tap water and home appliances.
The disease is not spread through person-to-person contact. According to the Washington Examiner's reporting, it is transmitted through the inhalation of contaminated water aerosols. Past outbreaks have been linked to mist from large cooling towers.
Testing of water-cooling towers across the city began during the July Fourth weekend and is ongoing, according to Mayor Mamdani. Health Commissioner Alister Martin acknowledged that the confirmed case count is likely to climb as more people undergo testing.