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The Department of Health today (May 21) called on members of the public not to use cosmetic products called "Qian Yan (White Cream)" and "Qian Yan (Yellow Cream)" following a case of mercury poisoning reported by the Hospital Authority.
The case involved a 29-year-old Indonesian woman who was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital on May 1 for generalised swelling and was discharged on May 5. She is in stable condition.
Laboratory results showed that the levels of mercury in "Qian Yan (White Cream)" and "Qian Yan (Yellow Cream)" were 11,017 to 8,894 times respectively that of the acceptable level.
The department's investigations revealed that the woman had used the products for a few months. The source of the product is still under investigation.
The case has been referred to the Customs and Excise Department for follow-up.
A Department of Health spokesman urged members of the public who had been using the cosmetic creams concerned to stop using them immediately and seek advice from their doctors as soon as possible.
He said mercury poisoning was caused by an overdose of mercury in the body, causing damage mainly to the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremors, irritability, insomnia, memory deterioration, difficulty with concentrating, impaired hearing and vision or change in taste. In the most severe cases, renal failure may occur.
Ends/Thursday, May 21, 2009
Issued at HKT 19:16
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