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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 25) investigating a case of Legionnaires' disease (LD) affecting a man aged 58.
The patient, with underlying illness, has presented with fever and shortness of breath since November 24. He attended the outpatient department of a private hospital and was admitted on the same day. He was transferred to the Intensive Care Unit today. His clinical diagnosis is pneumonia and he is now in serious condition.
His urine sample tested positive for Legionella antigen upon laboratory testing by the hospital.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the patient had travelled to the Mainland from November 15 to 24. His travel collaterals and home contact remain asymptomatic. Investigations are proceeding.
This is the 36th 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/Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:48
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