17 Aug 2009
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (August 17) investigating two cases of Legionnaires' Disease.
The first case involved a 62-year-old man living in Kennedy Town. He developed fever and abdominal pain since August 6. He was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital on August 13 for persistent fever, abdominal pain and shortness of breath. He is now in stable condition.
The second case involved a 59-year-old man living in Wong Tai Sin. He presented with sore throat and malaise since August 12 and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital for fever and shortness of breath yesterday. He is now in critical condition.
Urine samples of the two patients were tested positive for
Legionella pneumophila
.
CHP's investigations showed that both of them had no travel history before the onset of symptoms. Their family members are asymptomatic.
These are the 25th and 26th Legionnaires' Disease cases 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
).
.