13 Jan 2010
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a confirmed case of Legionnaires' Disease.
The case involved a 77-year-old man living in Tuen Mun. He developed fever, fatigue, cough, chest pain and shortness of breath since January 5 and was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on January 8. His condition deteriorated later and he is now in critical condition.
Urine tests revealed that he had been infected with Legionella bacteria.
CHP's investigation showed that the patient had no recent travel history. His home contact was asymptomatic.
This is the first case of Legionnaires' Disease reported this year. Thirty-seven were reported in 2009, 13 cases in 2008 and 11 in 2007.
Information on Legionnaires' Disease and advice on prevention can be found on the CHP's website (
www.chp.gov.hk
).