Legionnaires' Outbreak in South Bronx: Cooling Towers, Including Yankee Stadium, Undergo Disinfection

September 13, 2026
Legionnaires' Outbreak in South Bronx: Cooling Towers, Including Yankee Stadium, Undergo Disinfection
  • A Legionnaires’ disease cluster in the South Bronx has prompted city health officials to order cleaning and disinfection of 10 cooling towers, including the one at Yankee Stadium, after preliminary tests detected Legionella bacteria.

  • Positive PCR results were identified at 820 Concourse Village West, 234 E. 149th St., 1 E. 161st St., 470 E. 161st St., 1265 Franklin Ave., 567 Melrose Ave., 3339 Park Ave., 1160 Teller Ave., 890 Washington Ave., and 1085 Washington Ave.

  • As of September 12, there have been nine diagnosed cases in the cluster (three hospitalized, four discharged, one not hospitalized) and one death.

  • Coverage from FOX 5 NY includes a segment by Jessica Formoso and related video links for further context.

  • Officials stressed a rapid public health response and ongoing measures to strengthen system safety and transparency, with the mayor referencing lessons from prior outbreaks.

  • A community town hall is scheduled to provide updates as the investigation continues.

  • Residents in the South Bronx have expressed concern and a push for proactive measures to prevent future incidents.

  • Information and updates come from the NYC Health Department and the CDC.

  • City officials are conducting extensive follow-up, including enhanced testing rules, inspections, fines, and broad outreach through canvassing, flyers, LinkNYC, media, and town halls, with events scheduled in the Bronx.

  • Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin warned that building owners who are noncompliant will face consequences and accountability.

  • Public guidance remains that it is safe to use tap water, take showers, and operate air conditioners, with testing and remediation ongoing in affected areas.

  • Residents and visitors in ZIP codes 10451 and 10456 are advised to seek medical care if experiencing flu-like symptoms, and cooling tower mist can travel up to three blocks, warranting vigilance in Melrose and Morrisania.

Summary based on 25 sources


Get a daily email with more US News stories

More Stories