A case of Legionnaires' Disease confirmed

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 11) is investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease (LD) involving a 72-year-old man.

The patient living in Kwai Chung developed fever on September 1 and was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on September 4. He had recovered and was discharged on September 25.

CHP's investigations are continuing.

There have been a total of 14 LD cases so far this year. Nine of them are classified as local cases, three as imported cases. The remaining two cases, including today's case, are yet to be classified.

Two LD cases were reported in 2000, three in 2001, four in 2002, three in 2003, three in 2004 and 11 in 2005.

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 in CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).

End/Wednesday, October 11, 2006