A 63-year-old Eastern District man is fighting for his life after contracting Legionnaires' disease, the Centre for Health Protection says.

He was admitted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital June 14 and is in critical condition.

He came down with a cough, breathlessness and lethargy on June 10. He had travelled during the incubation period, but his family members have no symptoms.

It is the year's fourth case. There were 11 last year, 16 in 2006 and 11 in 2005.

To prevent the disease maintain good health and avoid smoking and excessive drinking. Handle soil, compost and potting mixes with caution, and follow good practices in the design, installation, operation and maintenance of man-made water systems.