CHP investigating three cases of Legionnaires' Disease

29 Jun 2009

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (June 29) investigating three cases of Legionnaires' Disease.

The first case involved a 56-year-old man living in Sha Tin. He travelled to Shenzhen on June 23 and developed fever, cough and diarrhoea on June 26. He then returned to Hong Kong on the same day and was admitted to North District Hospital. The patient is now in stable condition.

His family contact is asymptomatic.

The second case involved a 60-year-old man living in Wong Tai Sin. He developed fever, cough and shortness of breath on June 19 and was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on June 21. The patient is now in critical condition.

He had no travel history during the incubation period. His family members are asymptomatic.

The third case involved a 78-year-old man living in Yau Ma Tei. He presented with cough and shortness of breath since June 14 and fever on June 23.

The man was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on June 24. He is now in critical condition.

His family members are asymptomatic.

A total of 12 cases of Legionnaires' Disease have been reported to the CHP so far this year. 13 cases were reported in 2008, 11 in 2007 and 16 in 2006.

To prevent the disease, people 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.
- Avoid 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 (www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pps/oa_ld_pub_cp.shtml) for the Code of Practice published by the Prevention of Legionnaires' Disease Committee in 2007.

Information on Legionnaires' Disease and advice on preventive measures can also be found on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).