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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (May 28) investigating a case of Legionnaires' disease (LD) affecting a man aged 71.
The patient, with underlying illnesses, has presented with fever, cough and shortness of breath since May 21. He attended the Accident and Emergency Department of North District Hospital yesterday (May 27) and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit on the same day for further management.
His clinical diagnosis was pneumonia and he is currently in serious condition.
His urine sample tested positive for Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 antigen upon laboratory testing by Prince of Wales Hospital.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had travelled to the Mainland from May 6 to 27. His travel collateral and home contact have so far remained asymptomatic. Investigations are proceeding.
This is the 13th 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, May 28, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:20
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