How to Navigate NYC's Legionella Season Without Panic

NYC's Legionella season centers on cooling-tower bacteria; spread is via inhaled mist, not drinking water, with Legionella detected in cooling towers of 76 buildings and 63 hospitalizations (no deaths) to date. Mitigation involves draining/drying/retreating towers, rapid testing, and disclosure by buildings, plus ongoing monitoring. Most people won’t get sick, but older adults, smokers, and those with chronic illnesses should take precautions (e.g., masking near affected blocks). Climate-change-linked heat may worsen growth, but city officials say outbreaks are manageable with proper vigilance and transparency.