The Centre for Health Protection is investigating a possible leptospirosis case. The patient's initial blood test found antibodies to the condition.

The 31-year-old female domestic helper living in Tuen Mun developed lower limb weakness and twitching on September 19. She was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on the same day and is now receiving treatment and is in a stable condition. Further tests are in progress.

The centre is investigating the circumstances of her infection. The patient did not have any recent travel history and did not take part in Team Challenge 36, an event linked to four recent cases. The patient's household are all asymptomatic.

The incidence of leptospirosis is low in Hong Kong. There was one local case in 2001, two in 2002 and one imported case last year. So far this year, there has been one imported and five local cases.

The risk of infection can be minimised by covering open wounds properly. People should also avoid contact with the urine of live mammals and objects contaminated by them as well as polluted water.

The public can call the centre's hotline 2575 1221 for health advice.