WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — New York City will implement new regulations for the city’s water system to reduce the risk of future outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease, Mayor Bill de Blasio said.
De Blasio made the statement as two more residents died of Legionnaires’ disease on Monday in the borough of Bronx, bringing the death toll to 12.
The measures also include sanctions for failure to comply with new standards introduced to contain the disease.
“We are confident the Legionnaires’ outbreak in the South Bronx has been contained, and are working with our partners in the City Council to protect the entire city in the long-term through stringent new regulations for building owners,” de Blasio noted.
Some 113 people have been infected with the disease, according to New York City authorities. More than 40 people have been hospitalized.
Legionnaires’ disease is an airborne bacteria spread through mist or vapor. Symptoms of infected individuals include coughing, fever.
The bacteria can grow in whirlpools, cooling towers and water supplies, according to the US Centers for Disease Control.
The outbreak is localized in the South Bronx area, where officials flushed water towers with fresh water to reduce potential exposure.
