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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (April 28) investigating a case of Legionnaires' disease (LD) affecting a 61-year-old man.
The patient, with underlying medical conditions, has presented with fever, cough and shortness of breath since April 22. He sought medical attention from a private hospital on April 23 and 25, and was subsequently admitted for treatment on April 26. His clinical diagnosis was pneumonia. His condition has been stable all along.
His urine sample tested positive for Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 antigen upon laboratory testing by the hospital.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had travelled alone to Thailand from April 10 to 14. His home contacts have remained asymptomatic so far. Investigations are proceeding.
This is the seventh LD case reported to the CHP this year. In 2013 and 2012, 28 cases were filed in each year.
The public may visit the CHP's LD page (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/2117.html) for further information and corresponding preventive advice.
Ends/Monday, April 28, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:00
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