Harlem, New York City, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA are facing lawsuits due to an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Harlem that caused five deaths and over 100 illnesses. Affected cooling towers at Harlem Hospital were reportedly not maintained, allowing Legionella bacteria to thrive. Legal representatives indicate that the outbreak was preventable, prompting calls for better health oversight in the community. Investigations are ongoing as city officials respond to the crisis and ensure safety measures are implemented.
New York City
Two construction companies, Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA, are facing legal action due to their alleged role in an outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Harlem that has resulted in five deaths and over 100 illnesses. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of two construction workers who contracted the disease, claims that both companies neglected to clean stormwater from the cooling towers at Harlem Hospital, allowing the growth of Legionella bacteria.
The outbreak, which is being described as “completely preventable,” has drawn attention to the essential health and safety measures that were not adequately enforced at the hospital, according to legal representatives. The outbreak first began to affect members of the community on July 22. Since then, over 100 reports of illness have come forward, with more than 14 individuals still hospitalized.
Heavy rainstorms in July are believed to be responsible for filling the cooling towers at Harlem Hospital with untreated rainwater, creating optimal conditions for the proliferation of dangerous bacteria. Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease closely resemble flu-like illnesses, including cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath, with an incubation period of up to two weeks.
The lawsuit seeks damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and the suffering experienced by the two affected workers, Duane Headley and Nunzio Quinto. Meanwhile, community advocates have raised significant concerns regarding the state of health oversight in Harlem, feeling that local health needs have been overlooked. City officials have confirmed the presence of Legionella bacteria in 12 cooling towers across 10 buildings in Central Harlem, leading to the disinfection and remediation of all affected cooling towers as of last week.
During a recent news conference, community leaders expressed frustration over the handling of the outbreak; calls for accountability and improved safety measures were echoed by both officials and residents. Despite the outbreak, Mayor Eric Adams defended the city’s health response, pointing out that Legionella can grow quickly even when cooling towers test negative for the bacteria.
Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA have been approached for comment regarding the lawsuit. Skanska has acknowledged its cooperation with health officials for inspections and remediation processes. Furthermore, historical data shows that past outbreaks of Legionnaires’ disease in New York City led to changes in regulations, including more frequent testing of cooling towers every 90 days.
The Health Department continues to investigate the exact origins of the outbreak and identify which specific cooling towers contributed to the surge in Legionnaires’ disease cases. As the city grapples with the ramifications of this outbreak, community members remain vigilant about health and safety measures moving forward.
FAQ
What is Legionnaires’ disease?
Legionnaires’ disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by bacteria known as Legionella. Symptoms may resemble flu-like illnesses, including cough, fever, chills, and muscle aches.
How did the outbreak occur?
The outbreak was linked to cooling towers at Harlem Hospital that filled with untreated rainwater during heavy storms in July, creating ideal conditions for the growth of Legionella bacteria.
What actions have been taken in response to the outbreak?
All affected cooling towers have been disinfected and remediated. The Health Department is conducting investigations to understand the outbreak’s cause and implement safety measures to prevent further occurrences.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal Action | Filed against Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA |
| Deaths | 5 fatalities reported |
| Illnesses | Over 100 reported illnesses |
| Cooling Towers | Towers at Harlem Hospital contained untreated rainwater |
| Community Response | Calls for improved health oversight and accountability |
| Investigations | The Health Department is investigating the sources of the outbreak |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak in Harlem Claims Lives
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
