The hospital’s operator, NYC Health + Hospitals, said a required routine of testing potable water supply “found low levels of Legionella bacteria” at the facility.
“Per guidance from the New York State Department of Health, which regulates hospitals, we have taken steps to prevent any impact on our patients, staff or visitors. Safety is always our highest priority,” NYC Health + Hospitals officials said.
The hospital has since implemented water restrictions, including using only bottled water, supplying packaged bath wipes for daily hygiene and installing new water filters on showers, according to officials.
Although the risk to patients, staff and visitors is low, the hospital notified its patients and staff, officials said.
Legionella bacteria can cause a virulent form of pneumonia called Legionnaires’ disease. The illness can be contracted by inhaling small droplets of contaminated water in mist or vapor.
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