CHP investigates case of Legionnaires' disease
**********************************************

     The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 3) investigating a case of Legionnaires' disease (LD) affecting a man aged 64.

     The patient, with good past health, has presented with fever and myalgia since October 30. He attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) on November 1 and the Accident and Emergency Department of Caritas Medical Centre on November 2. He was admitted on the same day and was transferred to Intensive Care Unit today. His clinical diagnosis is pneumonia and he is now in critical condition.

     His urine sample tested positive for Legionella antigen upon laboratory testing by PMH.

     Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had travelled to Taishan from October 24 to 26. His travel collaterals and home contact remain asymptomatic. Investigations are proceeding.

     This is the 34th 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, November 3, 2014
Issued at HKT 20:14

NNNN