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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (April 20) appealed to members of the public not to buy or use a cosmetic cream product, namely YIFUMEI Supple And White Night Cream, as it may contain excessive mercury, which is dangerous to health.
The appeal followed the CHP's receipt of notification of a case of mercury poisoning from the Hospital Authority (HA) involving a female patient aged 42. The CHP commenced investigations immediately.
The patient attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital on March 24, April 8 and April 18 for persistent swelling of lower limbs and no hospitalisation was required. She described a recent history of use of the above product for about a month before symptoms appear. Her urine sample revealed a mercury level higher than the reference interval and she was suspected to have mercury poisoning. She is currently in stable condition.
The product sample submitted by the patient revealed a level of mercury 27 317 times the acceptable level upon testing by the HA. The CHP's investigation is continuing. The case has been referred to the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department for follow-up investigation.
"Chronic exposure to mercury can cause damage to the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include tremors, irritability, insomnia, deterioration of memory, difficulty in concentration, impaired hearing and vision, and change in the ability to taste. In the most severe cases, renal failure may occur," a spokesman for the CHP explained.
"As the content of mercury in the above product is as high as 27 317 times the acceptable level, using the product may cause serious side-effects. People who have used it should stop immediately and consult healthcare professionals as soon as possible if they feel unwell or are in doubt. Members of the public are urged not to buy or use cosmetic products of unknown composition or from doubtful sources," the spokesman said.
Ends/Monday, April 20, 2015
Issued at HKT 20:25
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