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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a confirmed case of Legionnaires' Disease.
The case involves a 76-year-old man who lives in Sha Tin. He developed fever, shortness of breath, cough and malaise since April 14. He was admitted to the Prince of Wales Hospital on April 18 and is now in critical condition.
A urine test revealed that he had been infected with Legionella bacteria.
The CHP's investigation showed that the patient had travelled to Mainland China from April 3 to 6. His family member was asymptomatic.
This is the eighth 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 .
Ends/Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:07
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