Mamdani Downplays Legionnaires Outbreak as NYC Sees Five Deaths

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani says the Legionnaires’ outbreak is under control even as the death toll rises to five and 82 people are sick; the Department of Health reports the Upper East Side cluster’s origin has been eliminated and 21 remain ill with 8 hospitalized, while DNA sequencing continues to pinpoint the source. Critics, led by City Council Speaker Julie Menin, demand a more robust public‑health response and oversight. Officials caution against blanket cooling‑tower disinfection, arguing targeted actions are needed to protect high‑risk towers.