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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a food poisoning case involving two women aged 18 and 47, who had consumed vegetables suspected to be contaminated by chemicals, and reminded people to maintain good personal, food and environmental hygiene to prevent food-borne diseases.
They developed symptoms of dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, palpitation and shortness of breath about 15 to 30 minutes after consuming soup boiled with self-prepared dried vegetables at home on December 21. They sought medical consultation at the Accident and Emergency Department of Tuen Mun Hospital and were admitted on the same day. They are now in stable condition.
Initial investigation by CHP revealed that the vegetables was bought from a mobile hawker in Yuen Long. Investigation continues.
To reduce food poisoning by chemical contaminated vegetables, members of the public are strongly advised to take the following precautionary measures:
* Do not buy vegetables with an obvious strange smell;
* Wash well before cooking;
* Cook thoroughly before consumption; and
* Do not patronise unlicensed hawkers.
Anyone who suspects himself / herself to be suffering from symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, dizziness and numbness, should immediately consult his / her doctor or go direct for treatment in hospitals.
Ends/Saturday, December 22, 2012
Issued at HKT 22:37
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