In a surprising unfolding of events over a three week period, an outbreak of Legionnaires disease has hit NYC, a type of fatal bacterial pneumonia. So far eight people have died from the disease and more than 80 have fallen ill to infections. This is the highest number of infections that New York has faced in its public health history, Newsweek reported.

"New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and local public health officials say they plan to stop the outbreak by passing legislation that will require inspection and replacement of thousands of cooling towers in aging buildings that are believed to be the source," said Newsweek. "Water in 17 towers has already tested positive for Legionalla pneumophila, the bacteria that causes the disease."

Ninety-seven people have been diagnosed with Legionnaires disease in NYC. The condition is said to be caused by water-borne bacteria inhaled into the lungs.

"Health officials say Legionnaires' disease is easily diagnosed and treated with antibiotics but can pose a serious risk to anyone with an underlying medical condition, The Associated Press reported via ABC. There have been 2,400 cases nationwide this year.

While the legislation to contain Legionnaires bacteria is new to the U.S., this type of regulation has been swiftly carried out in Canada. Quebec experienced a similar Legionnaires disease outbreak in 2012.

"Lawmakers are working on legislation they say could help prevent another such outbreak, said ABC News. "Building owners would be required to register the locations of cooling towers with the city. There also will be a schedule of mandatory inspections, plus rules mandating prompt disinfection if bacteria are found."