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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 9) investigating a case of Legionnaires' disease (LD) affecting a man aged 87.
The patient, with underlying illnesses, has presented with fever and generalised discomfort since July 3 and was admitted to United Christian Hospital (UCH) for management on July 4. His clinical diagnosis was pneumonia. He died yesterday (July 8).
His urine sample tested positive for Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 antigen upon laboratory testing by UCH.
The CHP's preliminary investigations revealed that the patient had no recent travel history and his home contacts had remained asymptomatic so far. Investigations are ongoing.
This is the 20th 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/Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:26
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