In the outbreak of Legionnaires' disease that has taken place in South Bronx, 10 people have died and 100 cases have been diagnosed. The disease has taken place due to inhaling mist contaminated with certain bacteria.

New York City officials were of the view that the outbreak has been traced to cooling towers. In total, five towers in the South Bronx have been tested positive for the legionella bacteria. The outbreak, which has been termed to be the largest in New York City's history, has acted as an example as how little is known about the cooling towers for air-conditioning systems.

The 10 people who lost their lives due to the disease were already susceptible due to old age and pre-existing health conditions. On the annual basis, around 200 to 300 cases are reported of the Legionnaires' disease in the city. Till now in this year, 260 cases have also been reported.

The disease symptoms include high fever, muscle aches, coughing, shortness of breath and headaches. For now, there is no idea how many towers are present in the city. It is being said that there could be tens of thousands of towers in the city.

Other places, where legionella can thrive include whirlpool spas, hot tubs, humidifiers and hot water tanks. Mayor Bill de Blasio and members of the City Council will be coming with new laws next week that require registration of all buildings with cooling towers. They will also be required to go through testing to check the presence of the bacteria.