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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health today (December 21) reminded members of the public not to consume puffer fish following a report of suspected poisoning associated with the consumption of the fish.
The case involved a 22-year-old woman who developed peri-oral numbness and weakness about two hours after consuming a puffer fish for lunch yesterday (December 20) in her home in Kowloon City district.
She was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital last night 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, December 21, 2012
Issued at HKT 15:45
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