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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (July 19) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease involving a 56-year-old man.
The patient, with chronic illness, presented with productive cough and fever since July 6. He consulted a general practitioner on the same day, but his symptoms persisted. He was admitted to United Christian Hospital on July 13. He is now in a stable condition.
A urine test revealed that the patient was infected with Legionella bacteria.
The patient has no recent travel history. His home contacts are asymptomatic. Investigation is in progress.
This is the 16th case of Legionnaires' Disease reported to the CHP this year. Seventeen cases were filed in 2011, 20 in 2010 and 37 in 2009.
Information on Legionnaires' Disease and advice on prevention can be found on the CHP's website, www.chp.gov.hk.
Ends/Thursday, July 19, 2012
Issued at HKT 12:35
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