In the 50’s/60’s we did not have AC in NYC and got by just fine. I do summer in Houston TX without AC, I sweat a bit so I drink lots of frozen H20. With a good Scotch whiskey of course.
My beloved great grandmother grew up in NYC, BEFORE there was electricity...hence there weren't even any fans. She lived until I was 7!
Whoever writes this horse s^*t, are NUTS !