Low-level Legionella detected in Queens police precinct cooling tower
A cooling-tower at the NYPD's 112th Precinct in Queens tested positive for a small amount of Legionella bacteria, prompting drainage and disinfection.
Testing of the air-conditioning tower at the NYPD's 112th Precinct in Queens revealed a low-level, Level 2, presence of Legionella bacteria, the pathogen that causes Legionnaires’ disease. Officials drained and disinfected the tower, and the police union advised members to seek medical attention if symptoms appear. A separate tower supplying drinking and shower water showed no contamination, and no officers have reported illness.
City health officials emphasized that the low level does not pose a public-health risk and that water remains safe for drinking and showering. The incident comes as the city deals with the aftermath of a Manhattan outbreak that claimed 11 lives. The precinct will be retested to confirm the effectiveness of the cleaning measures.
Why it matters
Even a small Legionella presence can signal risks in building water systems, prompting preventive action to protect public health.
In this story
