BOMA Offers Legionella Outbreak Guidance

In response to the recent Legionnaires’ disease outbreak in New York, BOMA International is highlighting resources and guidance to help commercial owners and facility managers assess risks, strengthen water management practices, and prevent the spread of Legionella bacteria.

According to New York City health officials, the source of the outbreak has been identified and remediated following extensive testing and disinfection efforts. The outbreak resulted in dozens of reported cases and several deaths, underscoring the importance of proactive building water system management.

“While health officials have contained the immediate threat, this outbreak serves as an important reminder that Legionella prevention requires ongoing vigilance,” says Chair and CEO of BOMA International, Kjersten Jaeb. “Building owners and managers play a critical role in maintaining safe water systems, and BOMA is committed to providing the resources needed to support those efforts.”

Legionnaires’ disease is a serious form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria. The disease is not spread from person to person and cannot be contracted through drinking water. After heavy rainfall and flooding, contamination risks rise. Infection occurs when individuals inhale aerosolized water droplets containing the bacteria, which can develop in building systems, including cooling towers, hot water systems, decorative fountains, and other water features.

Although the recent outbreak occurred in New York City, Legionella risk management is a concern for building owners and operators nationwide. Although Legionnaire's disease outbreaks often arise in hospitals and long-term care facilities, all buildings have the potential to become contaminated. In the past decade, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a 900 percent increase in Legionnaire's disease cases. This emphasizes the importance of increased ventilation and restroom cleaning frequencies in mitigating its spread.