A Legionnaires' disease has gripped New York City's South Bronx, infecting up to 98 residents - the highest in the history of the city's public health. Latest reports indicate that eight people have died and 90 are seriously ill. The first case of the disease was diagnosed on July 12.

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Legionnaires' disease is a type of fatal pneumonia caused by the Legionella bacteria. Its outbreak has forced New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and public health officials to pass a legislation requiring thousands of cooling towers in old buildings to undergo inspection and replacement if need be - as this is the source of the bacteria. 

Water in 17 towers have already tested positive for Legionalla pneumophila. 

The new law dictates that building owners should register the location of their cooling towers with the city office. There will also be compulsory inspections and immediate disinfections to find the bacteria. 

This legislation is the first of its kind in the United Staes. Canada implemented similar rules in 2012 after the outbreak of Legionnaires' disease in Quebec City.

Last month, Dr. Mary Bassett, commissioner of New York City's health department, announced that an investigation to determine the source of the outbreak and to prevent future casualties is being conducted at a fast pace.

The total number of Legionnaires' cases diagnosed in the five boroughs of New York City stands between 200 - 300 cases annually. More than 4,500 cases were reported in the US two years ago. In 2014, 12 cases were reported in Co-Op City and nine people, who were living in buildings maintained by the New York City's Housing Authority in Queens also tested positive. 

Legionella bacteria grows in warm water (around 104 to 122 degrees Fahrenheit) and it is found in natural water bodies. Most people get exposed to the bacteria through cooling towers, hot water tanks, and water in hot tubs, plumbing systems and fountains. A person can also contract the illness after breathing in contaminated water that is vaporized. Currently, there is no vaccination available for the disease.

In 1977, the scientists figured out the details about the bacteria, which was found in the water towers of a hotel in Philadelphia, where a year earlier, a convention for the American Legion was organized.

The US' Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates five percent to 30 percent of deaths due to the disease annually. Between 8,000 to 18,000 people infected with the disease are admitted to hospitals across the U.S. every year.

TagsLegionnaires' Disease, Quebec City, Legionella Bacteria, U.S. Centers For Disease Control And Prevention, Legionnaires' Disease In United Kingdom, European Surveillance Scheme For Travel Associated Legionnaires' Disease