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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 3) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (LD) involving a 47-year-old man.
The man developed fever and cough on January 27. He consulted a private doctor on January 29 and was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital the next day.
Laboratory investigation confirmed Legionnaires' Disease today. He was discharged yesterday and is now in stable condition. He did not have a history of travel during the incubation period. Family members were asymptomatic.
This is the third Legionnaire's Disease case reported this year. Thirteen cases were reported in 2008, 11 in 2007 and 16 in 2006.
To prevent the disease, people are reminded to observe the following:
* Reduce susceptibility to the disease by avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and maintaining good health.
* People handling garden soils, composts and potting mixes should take the following precautions:
- Gently water gardens and composts using low pressure.
- Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face.
- Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants.
- Avoid working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses and
- Wash hands carefully afterwards.
* Proper design, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems.
For more information about good practices to be followed in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems, please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/eng/pps/oa_ld_pub_cp.shtml) for the Code of Practice published by the Prevention of Legionnaires' Disease Committee in 2007.
Information on LD and advice on preventive measures can also be found on the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Issued at HKT 18:31
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