The Upper East Side Legionnaires’ disease outbreak has now claimed the lives of nine people, eclipsing the death toll from last year’s Harlem cluster, health officials announced Friday.
The grim milestone was shared by Health Commissioner Dr. Alister Martin, who said two people who were diagnosed weeks ago had died.
“I’m saddened to share that 2 more people have died in connection with the UES Legionnaires’ disease cluster,” Martin said in a statement.
“We mourn each loss, and our hearts are with their loved ones.”
Martin said the source of the Upper East Side Legionnaires disease outbreak has been eliminated.
One person still remains hospitalized, the Department of Health said.
This summer’s outbreak has now surpassed the Harlem Legionnaires’ outbreak last year, where seven people died after contracting the disease.
