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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a confirmed case of Legionnaires' Disease.
The patient is an 80-year-old man with underlying medical conditions. He developed shortness of breath, fever and cough since July 26 and was admitted to Prince of Wales Hospital on August 2. He is now in critical condition.
Urine tests revealed that he had been infected with Legionella bacteria.
The CHP's investigation showed that he had no recent travel history. His home contacts were asymptomatic.
The investigation is still going on.
This is the 16th 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/Friday, August 6, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:24
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