The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 7) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (LD) involving a 51-year-old man.
The man, with medical condition, presented with shortness of breath, productive cough and poor appetite in late May. He was admitted to Kwong Wah Hospital on May 31 and was later transferred to Wong Tai Sin Hospital on June 13. He is now staying in Queen Elizabeth Hospital for further treatment. Laboratory result of his serum confirmed that he had suffered from LD. He is now in critical condition.
CHP's investigations revealed that he had travelled to the Mainland before hospital admission. His family members did not have any LD symptoms.
CHP's further investigation is in progress.
This is the eighth LD case reported this year. Eleven LD cases were reported in 2005, 16 in 2006, and 11 in 2007.
To prevent the disease, members of the public are reminded to observe the following:
* An individual may reduce his/her susceptibility to the disease by avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and maintaining good health.
* People handling garden soils, composts and potting mixes should take the following precautions:
- Gently water gardens and composts using low pressure.
- Open composted potting mixes slowly and make sure the opening is directed away from the face.
- Wet the soil to reduce dust when potting plants.
- Prevent working in poorly ventilated places such as enclosed greenhouses.
- Wash hands carefully afterwards.
* Proper design, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems.
For more information about the good practices to be followed in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems, please visit the website of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (http://www.emsd.gov.hk/emsd/e_download/pps/code.doc) for the Code of Practice published by the Prevention of Legionnaires' Disease Committee in 2000.
Information on LD and advice on preventive measures can also be found at CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, July 7, 2008