Case of Legionnaires' disease under CHP investigation
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     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (September 11) investigating a case of Legionnaires' disease (LD) affecting a 65-year-old man.

     The patient, with underlying illnesses, presented with fever and cough with sputum since August 21. He was admitted to Queen Mary Hospital (QMH) on September 5. He was clinically diagnosed as having pneumonia. His current condition is stable.

     His nasopharyngeal aspirate tested positive for Legionella bacteria upon laboratory testing by QMH.

     Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had no travel history during the incubation period. His home contacts have so far remained asymptomatic. Investigations are proceeding.

     This is the 15th LD case reported to the CHP this year. Twenty-eight cases were filed in 2012 and 17 in 2011.

     The public may visit the CHP's website (www.chp.gov.hk/en/content/9/24/2117.html) for further information on LD and corresponding preventive advice.

Ends/Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:59

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