Press Release

CHP investigates case of Legionnaires' disease

12 November 2014

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 12) investigating a case of Legionnaires' disease (LD) affecting a man aged 66.

The patient was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital (PYNEH) for his underlying illness on October 27. He has developed cough, shortness of breath and fever since November 10 and was transferred to Intensive Care Unit for further management today. His clinical diagnosis was pneumonia and he is now in stable condition.

His urine sample tested positive for Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 antigen by the hospital.

Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had no recent travel history. His home contact remains asymptomatic. Investigations are proceeding.

This is the 35th LD case reported to the CHP this year. In 2013 and 2012, 28 cases were filed in each year.

The public may visit the CHP's LD page (This link will open in a new windowwww.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/2117.html) for further information and corresponding preventive advice.