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Press Release

Update on cases of Legionnaires' disease

16 May 2016

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (May 16) reported the latest number of cases of Legionnaires' disease (LD) in Hong Kong, and stressed the importance of using and maintaining properly designed man-made water systems, and that susceptible groups should strictly observe relevant precautions.

From May 8 to 14, one community-acquired LD case was reported. The female patient, aged 62 with underlying illnesses, lives in The Crescent, The Hillgrove, Tuen Mun.

"Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify potential sources of infection, high-risk exposure and clusters, if any," a spokesman for the CHP said.

As of May 14, a total of 22 LD cases had been reported in 2016. In 2015 and 2014, there were 66 and 41 cases respectively.

Legionellae are found in various environmental settings and grow well in warm water (20 to 45 degrees Celsius). They can be found in aqueous environments such as water tanks, hot and cold water systems, cooling towers, whirlpools and spas, water fountains and home apparatus that support breathing. People may get infected when they breathe in contaminated droplets (aerosols) and mist generated by artificial water systems. They may also get the infection when handling garden soil, compost and potting mixes.

Persons with weakened immunity should strictly observe the health advice below:

The public, including susceptible groups, should take heed of the general precautions against LD below:

         1. Water gardens and compost gently using low pressure;
         2. Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face;
         3. Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants; and
         4. Avoid working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses.

More information is available on the pages below:



Last Revision Date : 16 May 2016