21 Jul 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 21) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease involving a 70-year-old man.
The patient, living in Yuen Long, developed cough and diarrhea on July 14. He was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on July 16 and is now in stable condition.
The CHP's investigation showed that the patient had no travel history before the onset of symptoms. His family members are asymptomatic.
This is the 16th Legionnaires' Disease case reported this year. Thirteen 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
).