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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (May 3) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease involving a 47-year-old woman.
The patient, with chronic illness, presented with fever, cough and shortness of breath since April 27. On April 30, she sought medical consultation at Tuen Mun Hospital and was admitted on the same day. Her condition is now critical.
Her tracheal aspirate and sputum tested positive for Legionella bacteria.
The patient had no recent travel history. Investigation is in progress.
This is the fifth 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 on the CHP's website, www.chp.gov.hk.
Ends/Thursday, May 3, 2012
Issued at HKT 18:51
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