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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating two confirmed cases of Legionnaires' Disease.
The first patient is a 60-year-old man with underlying medical conditions. The patient presented with fever, chills and shortness of breath since June 12 and was admitted to a private hospital on Hong Kong Island the next day. He is now in stable condition.
The CHP's investigation showed that he had travelled to the Mainland alone from June 4 to 5. His home contacts are asymptomatic.
The second patient is a 63-year-old man with good past health. The patient presented with fever and cough from June 9. As the symptoms persisted, he was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on June 13. He is now in stable condition.
An investigation revealed that he did not have recent travel history. His home contacts are asymptomatic.
Urine tests revealed that the two patients were infected with Legionella bacteria.
A total of 14 cases of Legionnaires' Disease have been reported to the CHP 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/Friday, June 18, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:35
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