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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (February 9) investigating a case of Legionnaires' Disease nvolving a 66-year-old man.
The patient living in Kowloon City developed shortness of breath and cough with sputum on February 1. He were admitted to Queen Mary Hospital on February 3 and died on February 8. His cause of death has yet to be established.
He did not travel before the onset of illness. Further investigation is continuing.
This is the second legionnaires' case reported this year. Two cases were reported in 2000, three in 2001, four in 2002, three in 2003, three in 2004, 11 in 2005 and 16 in 2006.
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 Legionnaires' Disease and advice on preventive measures can also be found in CHP's website (http://www.chp.gov.hk).
Ends/Friday, February 9, 2007
Issued at HKT 19:00
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