Senator Serrano Speaks to the Importance of Addressing Health Disparities
BRONX, N.Y. -- Senator Serrano recently released the following statement related to the most recent outbreak of Legionnaires' Disease:
“Communities like the ones I represent in the South Bronx face disproportionate negative health disparities that make our residents far more susceptible to severe disease if they contract Legionnaires. These disparities and preventable diseases like hypertension and diabetes create additional challenges whenever our city faces a health emergency. This is why we must continue to focus on the underlying health issues we face and prioritize access to primary health care and mandate cultural competency in our health care professions.”
The NYC Health Department is currently investigating a likely community cluster of Legionnaires' disease in parts of Melrose and Morrisania in the South Bronx (ZIP codes 10451 and 10456). Our community outreach efforts are being expanded to include ZIP codes 10455 and 10459 after identifying cases within a few blocks of ZIP code 10456, one of two ZIP codes where our investigation is taking place.
Any New Yorkers who currently live or work in this area or people who have visited the area since late August and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, should contact a healthcare provider immediately. Legionnaires' disease is deadly but can be effectively treated if diagnosed early.
For help finding a provider, regardless of immigration or insurance status, call 311 or 844-NYC-4NYC (844-692-4692).
NYC Health Information on Legionnaires'
