STATE EP Alert 6.1.2026
NYS Issues Advisory on Legionellosis
The New York State Department of Health (DOH) and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) have issued a health advisory urging providers to remain alert for possible cases of legionellosis, including Legionnaires’ disease.
Legionellosis is caused by Legionella bacteria. Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia that can be difficult to distinguish from other causes of pneumonia and may be mistaken for the flu. Symptoms may include fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, and shortness of breath.
HCP urges members, staff, and patients to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear, particularly among individuals at higher risk.
Legionnaires’ disease is not contagious and does not spread from person to person. It is transmitted by breathing in water vapor contaminated with Legionella bacteria and is treatable with antibiotics when caught early.
Home care providers should be especially mindful that many patients may be more susceptible to infection. People aged 50 and older, individuals with chronic lung disease, current or former smokers, people with compromised immune systems, and those with certain chronic conditions may face increased risk and should report symptoms promptly.
Members should also remind staff and patients that air conditioner use is safe. Staying cool remains critical to preventing heat-related illnesses, especially during periods of extreme heat. Air conditioners do not spread Legionnaires’ disease through normal use.
The advisory notes that New York State has a high rate of legionellosis, with cases occurring year-round and increasing during the summer and early fall. In 2025, statewide incidence increased to 6.1 cases per 100,000 population, up from 4.1 during 2022–2024.
Health care providers should promptly report suspected or confirmed cases to the local health department where the individual resides. Cases involving New York City residents should be reported to the NYC Health Department Provider Access Line at 866-692-3641. For cases outside NYC, providers should contact the appropriate local health department or the NYS Department of Health Bureau of Communicable Disease Control at 518-473-4439 during business hours or 866-881-2809 during evenings, weekends, and holidays.
