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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (January 4) reminded members of the public not to consume puffer fish following a report of suspected poisoning associated with consumption of the fish.
The case involved a 33-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, who developed limb numbness, dizziness, vomiting and muscle weakness about two hours after consuming a dried puffer fish for dinner last night (January 3) in their home. The dried puffer fish was caught and processed in the Mainland by a friend of the patients.
They sought medical attention at the Accident and Emergency Department of Queen Mary Hospital. The woman was admitted 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/Friday, January 4, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:00
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