The Centre for Health Protection is investigating a suspected case of leptospirosis involving a 41-year-old man.

He came down with a fever, chills and muscle pain on November 19. He is in hospital in stable condition. He travelled to the Mainland earlier in the month. 

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacteria leptospira. Leptospira organisms can be found in some animals including rodents, cattle, pigs, horses and dogs.

Patients with leptospirosis usualy show a flu-like illness with high fever, headache, muscle pains, red eyes, sore throat and a rash.

In some cases the disease can cause anemia and affect the liver, kidneys, lungs, and other internal organs. The disease can be treated effectively with antibiotics.