CHP investigates case of Legionnaires' Disease

17 Mar 2010

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a confirmed case of Legionnaires' Disease.

The case involved a 65-year-old woman with underlying medical conditions who lives in Kwai Chung. She developed cough since January 28 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital for shortness of breath on February 11. She was discharged on February 18 and is now in stable condition.

Blood tests revealed that she had been infected with Legionella bacteria.

CHP's investigation showed that she did not have recent travel history. Her home contacts were asymptomatic.

This is the sixth case of Legionnaires' Disease reported this year. Thirty-seven cases were reported in 2009, 13 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.