CHP investigating patient with initial positive result for leptospirosis.

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 8) is investigating a patient whose initial blood test result shows positive antibodies to leptospirosis.

A CHP spokesman said the patient was a 31-year-old female domestic maid living in Tuen Mun. She developed lower limb weakness and twitching on September 19. She was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on the same day and is now receiving treatment in stable condition. Her initial blood results showed positive antibodies to leptospirosis. Further tests are in progress.

The spokesman said CHP is investigating the circumstances of her infection. This patient did not have any recent travel history and did not take part in "Team Challenge 36", an event that was linked to four cases of leptospirosis earlier. CHP contacted members of the patient's household and they were all asymptomatic.

The incidence of leptospirosis is low in Hong Kong. There was one local case in 2001, two local cases in 2002 and one imported case in 2003. So far this year, there are one imported and five local cases.

"The risk of infection can be minimized by covering open wounds properly. People should also avoid contact with urine of live mammals and objects contaminated by them as well as polluted water."

Members of the public can call CHP's special hotline 2575 1221 for health advice during office hours.

Ends/Friday, October 8, 2004