Press Release

CHP investigates case of imported Legionnaires' Disease

10 May 2012

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a confirmed imported case of Legionnaires' Disease involving a 55-year-old male tourist from the Netherlands.

The patient travelled alone to Hong Kong yesterday (May 9). He developed severe shortness of breath and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital upon his arrival in Hong Kong.

He remained in critical condition and died from pneumonia today (May 10).

His urine tested positive for Legionella antigen.

Investigation continues.

This is the seventh case of Legionnaires' Disease reported to the CHP this year. Seventeen cases were filed in 2011, 20 in 2010 and 37 in 2009.

Information on Legionnaires' Disease and advice on prevention can be found at the CHP's website, This link will open in a new windowwww.chp.gov.hk.