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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (August 22) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease involving a 79-year-old man.
The patient, who had underlying illness, presented with fever and productive cough since August 10. He was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on August 13 and was transferred to Intensive Care Unit on August 21 because of respiratory failure. He is now in critical condition.
Blood and urine sample tests have revealed that the patient was infected with Legionella bacteria.
The patient had no recent travel history. His home contacts were asymptomatic. Investigation is in progress.
This is the 19th 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/Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Issued at HKT 20:18
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