News Summary
A lawsuit has been brought against Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA following a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in Harlem that resulted in five deaths and over 100 illnesses. The legal action cites negligence related to improper stormwater management at Harlem Hospital’s cooling towers. Attorney Ben Crump argues that the outbreak was preventable and has sparked community concerns about health safety. City officials confirm ongoing investigations and measures to address the situation as more individuals remain hospitalized.
Harlem – A lawsuit has been filed against two construction companies, Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA, in relation to a deadly outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease in Harlem that has left five individuals dead and over 100 others ill. The legal action is being pursued on behalf of two construction workers who were hospitalized after contracting the disease as a result of conditions purportedly created by the negligence of the companies.
The lawsuit charges that Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA failed to properly remove stormwater from cooling towers at Harlem Hospital, which allowed for the proliferation of Legionella bacteria. The first cases of the disease linked to this outbreak were identified on July 22, 2023.
Attorney Ben Crump, representing the affected workers, remarked that this outbreak was entirely preventable, asserting that the consequences were avoidable and that no one should have suffered or died from this illness. Additionally, community figures, including Rev. Al Sharpton, have voiced concerns to address the public anxiety surrounding the outbreak and its implications for local health safety.
Details of the Outbreak
The outbreak was exacerbated by heavy rainfall in July, which reportedly led to the accumulation of untreated rainwater in the cooling towers at Harlem Hospital. This stagnant water created an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. More than 14 individuals remain hospitalized due to the ongoing effects of the disease.
Symptoms of Legionnaires’ disease can mimic flu-like conditions and include cough, fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. The incubation period for the disease can extend up to two weeks, making timely detection and intervention crucial for affected individuals.
City and Health Department Response
City officials confirmed that Legionella bacteria were identified in 12 cooling towers across 10 buildings in Central Harlem. Actions have already been taken, with all affected cooling towers undergoing disinfection and remediation as of last week. Mayor Eric Adams reiterated that while the health department actively tests for Legionella, the bacteria can multiply rapidly even after negative test results, underscoring the persistent challenges of containing such outbreaks.
The Health Department is currently conducting an investigation to determine the origin of the outbreak and identify which specific cooling towers may have contributed to the illnesses. Historical trends indicate that New York City has faced similar outbreaks in the past, leading to more stringent regulations, including mandates for rigorous testing protocols of cooling towers every 90 days.
Community Concerns
The lawsuits seek damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering endured by the affected construction workers. Rising Sun Construction and Skanska USA have been contacted for comments regarding the lawsuit, with Skanska confirming its full cooperation with ongoing health inspections mandated by authorities.
This tragic outbreak of Legionnaires’ disease not only has taken lives but has also brought to light urgent public health issues that the Harlem community has been battling for years. As investigations continue and legal actions unfold, both the city and the construction companies at the heart of the matter face increased scrutiny regarding their commitment to community health safety.
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Legionnaires’ Disease Outbreak Claims Lives in Harlem
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Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga 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 Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
