CHP investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease

1 Jul 2008

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 1) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (LD) involving a 41-year-old man.

The man presented with fever, headache, chills and muscle pain on June 24. He was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital on June 28 and is now in stable condition.

CHP's investigations revealed that he did not have a travel history recently. His family members did not have any LD symptoms.

This is the seventh LD case reported this year. Eleven LD cases were reported in 2005, 16 in 2006, and 11 in 2007.

To prevent the disease, members of the public are reminded to observe the following:

* An individual may reduce his/her susceptibility to the disease by avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and maintaining good health.

* People handling garden soils, composts and potting mixes should take the following precautions:

- Gently water gardens and composts using low pressure.
- Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face.
- Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants.
- Prevent working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses.
- Wash hands carefully afterwards.

* Proper design, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems.

For more information about the good practices to be followed in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems, please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/e_download/pps/code.doc) for the Code of Practice published by the Prevention of Legionnaires' Disease Committee in 2000.

Information on LD and advice on preventive measures can also be found at CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).