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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 10) reminded members of the public not to consume puffer fish following a report of suspected poisoning associated with the consumption of the fish.
The case involved a 66-year-old man who developed dizziness, facial and limb numbness and shortness of breath about four hours after consuming a puffer fish for dinner last night (December 9) in his friend's home in Tseung Kwan O.
He was admitted to Tseung Kwan O Hospital today and is currently in stable condition.
A CHP spokesperson said puffer fish contains tetrodotoxin, a heat-stable toxin that does not decompose during boiling or cooking.
"Toxins are most concentrated in organs such as the liver, gonads and skin. Avoiding eating puffer fish is the best way to prevent puffer fish poisoning," the spokesperson said.
Ends/Monday, December 10, 2012
Issued at HKT 20:06
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