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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (October 5) reminded members of the public to be extra cautious when consuming coral reef fish as they could contain ciguatoxin which may cause food poisoning.
The advice followed a report of food poisoning case suspected to be caused by fish containing ciguatoxin.
The case involved two men and eight women aged between 18 and 65. They developed symptoms of ciguatoxin poisoning including limb numbness, vomiting and diarrhea, muscle pain nine to 23 hours after eating a coral reef fish in a sea food restaurant in Po Toi O, Clear water Bay on October 3.
Five of them sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments of hospitals; two from Tseung Kwan O Hospital, two from Tuen Mun Hospital and one from Ruttonjee Hospital. One of them was admitted to Tuen Mun Hospital in stable condition. Three others sought treatment from private doctors.
The suspected fish is believed to be highfin coral grouper.
To prevent ciguatera fish poisoning members of the public should observe the following measures:
? Eating less coral reef fish, especially fish weighing over three catties.
? Eating small amount of coral reef fish at any one meal and avoid having a whole fish feast in which all the dishes come from the same big coral reef fish.
? Avoid eating the head, skin, viscera and roe of coral reef fish which usually have higher concentration of toxin.
? When eating coral reef fish, avoid consuming alcohol, peanuts or beans as they may aggravate ciguatoxin poisoning.
? Seeking medical treatment immediately should symptoms of ciguatoxin fish poisoning appear.
? Coral reef fish should be purchased from reputable and licensed seafood shops. Do not buy it when the source is doubtful.
Ends/Wednesday, October 5, 2005
Issued at HKT 19:22
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