CHP investigates case of probable botulism
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The female patient, aged 49 with good past health, developed difficulty in swallowing on June 7. She attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Pok Oi Hospital that evening and was subsequently admitted for treatment. The clinical diagnosis was suspected iatrogenic botulism. The patient has been in stable condition.
According to the patient, she received injections of botulinum toxin over her forehead and around her eyes at an institution in Shenzhen in the afternoon of June 7.
"The case will be reported to the Mainland health authority. We are maintaining close liaison with Mainland health and drug regulatory counterparts to identify if there are similar cases," a spokesman for the DH said.
"Botulism is a statutorily notifiable infectious disease. Clinicians must report to the CHP if patients have symptoms or history of suspected botulism," the spokesman said.
"Due to the weakening of associated muscles and the fact that botulinum toxin may spread and affect other areas beyond the injection site, affected patients may have drooping of the eyelids, double vision or blurred vision, problems with chewing, hoarseness or even difficulties in swallowing, speaking or breathing, which may happen in hours, days or weeks after the injection," he added.
The DH urged the public to observe the health advice below before receiving botulinum toxin injections:
- Injections should only be performed by locally registered doctors;
- Understand the procedure, potential risks and complications before receiving injections. Consult a doctor for an informed decision;
- Do not receive an injection in case of history of allergy to botulinum toxin, or infection or inflammation on the injection site;
- Request the full name of the doctor in writing if referred by a beauty service provider for the procedure, as well as the professional qualifications and relevant experience; and
- If symptoms develop, such as fever or feeling unwell, seek medical attention immediately.
The public may visit the following pages for more information: the differentiation between medical procedures and beauty services, the Drug Database of the Drug Office, and the CHP's botulism page.
Ends/Thursday, June 8, 2017
Issued at HKT 18:50
Issued at HKT 18:50
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