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The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (March 3) investigating a case of narcissus poisoning affecting four members of a family, and hence reminded members of the public not to consume the toxic narcissus.
The case involves a male and three females aged from nine to 45 who developed abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea about 15 to 30 minutes after consuming a dish containing leaves of narcissus at home for dinner on February 28. All of them sought medical attention at the Accident and Emergency Department of Pok Oi Hospital and were admitted in the same evening for further management. They were subsequently discharged and are now in stable condition.
Initial enquiries by the CHP revealed that the narcissus involved was a domestic plant grown by the family. Investigations are proceeding.
"Narcissus contains alkaloid which can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and dizziness. It is not recommended for human consumption. Severe poisoning may occur from ingestion of raw or cooked bulbs. Less frequently, blurred vision, headache, sweating, oral numbness, hypotension, convulsion, and coma have also been reported," a spokesman for the CHP explained.
"The public should avoid consuming narcissus in order to prevent poisoning. If symptoms of poisoning develop, they should immediately consult medical professionals for advice and prompt treatment," the spokesman urged.
Ends/Monday, March 3, 2014
Issued at HKT 20:25
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