NEW YORK, NY — Legionnaires’ disease is not just a summer threat, and recent testing at a Harlem apartment building underscores why cooling towers must be monitored and maintained throughout the year, according to a New York City attorney.
On January 13, 2026, city health officials began evaluating two of five cooling towers at 3333 Broadway for the presence of Legionella bacteria. The New York City Department of Health has said test results could take up to two weeks.
The investigation highlights a common misconception that Legionnaires’ disease only poses a risk during warmer months, said attorney Ronald Katter of the Katter Law Firm.
“Legionnaires’ disease doesn’t follow the calendar,” Katter said. “If cooling towers and building water systems aren’t properly maintained, people can be exposed at any time of year — including the middle of winter.”
Legionnaires’ disease is contracted by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. While outbreaks are more frequently reported in the summer, experts say indoor environments such as apartment buildings, hospitals, and hotels can create conditions that allow the bacteria to spread year-round.
“People living in closed or shared settings can be exposed through everyday water sources like faucets, showers, or hot water systems,” Katter said. “Even outdoors, unseasonably warm or humid conditions can increase the risk.”
Katter said the Harlem case should serve as a reminder to building owners and property managers that routine inspections and cleaning of cooling towers are essential — not optional — regardless of the season.
“Waiting until warmer weather to take this seriously puts lives at risk,” he said. “Preventive maintenance is the best defense.”
Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia, is contracted by inhaling aerosolized water droplets containing Legionella bacteria. Cooling towers, hot tubs, and other warm-water systems are common sources. According to the CDC, most outbreaks are preventable with proper water-system maintenance and monitoring.
If you or someone you know has been sickened or injured as a result of Legionnaires’ Disease, contact the “Legionnaires’ Lawyer” — Ronald Katter. Mr. Katter and his firm will help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, contact us at (212) 809-4293 or visit our contact page.
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About Katter Law Firm
The Katter Law Firm represents clients throughout New York City in personal injury cases including those who have suffered injuries in automobile accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, truck accidents, slip/trip and falls, hotel accidents, assaults, workplace accidents, construction accidents, professional malpractice, nursing home negligence, hospital mistreatment, police abuse, accidental deaths and pet attacks. The firm aggressively represents injured victims through the five boroughs, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens as well as Westchester County. For more information, call (212) 809-4293 or visit www.katterlaw.com.
