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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (November 7) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease involving a 76-year-old man.
The patient, living in North Point, developed fever and shortness of breath on October 15. He has been admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital since October 15 and is now in stable condition.
CHP's investigations are continuing.
There have been a total of 16 Legionnaire's Disease cases so far this year. Eleven (including today's case) of them are classified as local cases, three as imported cases. The remaining two cases are yet to be classified.
Two 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, people 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 Legionnaire's Disease and advice on preventive measures can also be found in CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Issued at HKT 18:16
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