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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 14) called on members of the public not to consume puffer fish following a report of a suspected poisoning case associated with the fish.
The case involves a 52-year-old seaman who developed dizziness, numbness of limbs and abdominal pain after consuming a puffer fish yesterday. He was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital and is now in stable condition.
A CHP spokesman said puffer fish contains tetrodotoxin, a heat-stable toxin which does not decompose on boiling or cooking.
"Toxins are most concentrated in the organs such as liver, gonads and skin. Avoidance of puffer fish consumption is the best way to prevent puffer fish poisoning," the spokesman said.
Ends/Friday, December 14, 2007
Issued at HKT 15:32
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