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The Department of Health (DH) today (September 6) called on members of the public who had consulted a general practitioner in Tung Chung for cold and cough to stop taking a transparent syrup for running nose and allergy prescribed by the doctor and called the DH hotline 2125 2727.
The appeal was made after the department received notification today by Princess Margaret Hospital that a six-year-old boy was admitted for burning sensation in the mouth after taking the medicine on September 5. He is now in stable condition.
Investigation revealed that the boy had consulted a private doctor, Dr HIN Lin-yee in Yat Tung Shopping Centre, Tung Chung on September 4 for cold and cough. He developed the symptoms after taking the medicine dispensed by the doctor.
Laboratory test by the hospital found the syrup medicine for running nose and allergy contained Isopropyl alcohol instead.
A spokesman for DH said patients who had consulted the said doctor and are feeling unwell after taking the said medication should seek medical consultation immediately. They could also call the DH hotline on 2125 2727. The hotline will operate until midnight today and during office hours thereafter for enquiry.
Meanwhile, patients who might have been dispensed with the drug will be contacted.
DH's staff, including pharmacists and doctors, have visited Dr Hin's clinic for investigation.
Ends/Wednesday, September 6, 2006
Issued at HKT 22:08
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