The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today ( 3 September ) reported the latest number of cases of Legionnaires’ disease (LD), and from 26 August to 1 September, three community-acquired LD cases were reported.One was a male patient, aged 58 with good past health, who lives in Stage 4, Marina Cove, Sai Kung. there was no information given on how, or where, he had contracted the disease.
“Epidemiological investigations are ongoing to identify potential sources of infection, high-risk exposure and clusters, if any,” a spokesman for the CHP said.
As of September 1, 63 LD cases had been reported in 2018. In 2017 and 2016, there were 72 and 75 cases respectively.
“Men, people aged over 50, smokers, alcoholics and persons with weakened immunity are more susceptible to LD. Some situations may also increase the risk of infection, including poor maintenance of water systems leading to stagnant water; living in areas with old water systems, cooling towers or fountains; using electric water heaters, whirlpools and spas or hot water spring spas; and recent stays in hotels or vessels,” the spokesman said.
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