The NY Legionnaires disease outbreak has health officials watching GA. Here’s why, what to know

A recent cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in New York City has once again raised alarms in Georgia about this rare illness, recalling the state’s outbreak in 2019.

The New York Times reported the Harlem outbreak is linked to contaminated cooling towers in 11 buildings and 70 people have been diagnosed with three deaths reported so far.

In light of the state’s history with the disease, many Georgia residents may be concerned about another outbreak.

What is Legionnaires Disease?

The disease earned its name from a 1976 outbreak among American Legion members at a Philadelphia hotel. The Philadelphia Encyclopedia says, many of the infected attended a convention at American Legion at the Bellevue-Stratford Hotel, giving the new illness its name.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria. While cases are still relatively uncommon, reported infections have been on the rise across the country.

How do you know if you have Legionnaires Disease?

People get sick by inhaling tiny water droplets or mist contaminated with the bacteria, often released from large water systems like cooling towers, hotel plumbing, fountains or even hot tubs.

This makes summer the prime time for the contraction and spread of the illness. However, it is important to know, the disease cannot be contracted from another person; it’s entirely environmental.

Symptoms typically develop two to 14 days after exposure and early treatment with antibiotics is crucial. Most people who get immediate care recover fully.

Symptoms may include:

• Fever (sometimes as high as 104°F)
• Cough (which may produce mucus)
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle aches and headaches
• Chills
• Confusion, nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain

While healthy people can be exposed and not get sick some groups should be more concerned.

These are the more vulnerable populations:

• Older individuals, especially over age 50
• Smokers
• Individuals with weakened immune systems or chronic lung disease are at highest risk for severe illness. 

The past Legionnaires outbreaks in Georgia

Georgia’s most notable outbreak struck Atlanta in 2019 and was linked to the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel, according to WABE, Atlanta’s NPR and PBS station.

In recent years, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has reported that case counts have continued to rise, consistent with national trends.

These factors contribute to outbreaks:

• Georgia’s hot, humid summers and widespread use of centralized cooling systems
• Aging infrastructure in public and commercial buildings
• Growing population of older adults and people with chronic health conditions
• Seasonal increases in people traveling and staying at hotels

How can you protect against contracting Legionnaires?

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risk, there are few steps to take.

To help lower the risk of infection:

• Report malfunctioning air conditioning or plumbing to property managers
• Stay alert to public health advisories
• Seek medical care promptly if you develop unexplained pneumonia-like symptoms, especially if you’re in a high-risk group or have recently stayed in a hotel or large building

Legionnaires’ disease may be rare, but with an outbreak in the US personal vigilance is essential for residents, but also for property managers and health officials.

Do you have any experience with Legionnaires Disease or remember the outbreak in Georgia in 2019 (or before)? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.

This story was originally published August 9, 2025 at 6:00 AM with the headline "The NY Legionnaires disease outbreak has health officials watching GA. Here’s why, what to know."