The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) is today (July 21) investigating a suspected case of botulism, and again reminded the public that botulism injections should only be prescribed and performed by registered doctors.

     A female patient, aged 38 with good past health, developed difficulty in swallowing, generalised weakness and drooping eyelids since July 17. She attended the Accident and Emergency Department of United Christian Hospital on July 19 and was found to have dysphonia (phonation disorder), but refused hospital admission. The clinical diagnosis was suspected iatrogenic botulism and she has been in stable condition.

     According to the patient, she received an injection to her face at a beauty premises in Dongmen, Shenzhen, on July 4, but she was uncertain if it was botulinum toxin. She refused to provide further details about the premises.

     "We have no evidence at this stage that patients of the nine recent cases so far received injections in the same premises. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing," a spokesman for the DH said.

     "We are maintaining close liaison with Mainland health and drug regulatory counterparts to identify if there are similar cases, and have noted that the Mainland health authority has taken follow-up measures," the spokesman said.

     Botulism is a statutorily notifiable infectious disease. Clinicians must report to the CHP in case patients have symptoms or history of suspected botulism.

     "Due to the weakening of associated muscles, patients receiving the injection may have problems with chewing or even swallowing, speaking or breathing, which may happen in hours, days or weeks. Botulinum toxin may spread and affect other areas beyond the injection site, resulting in hoarseness, drooping of the eyelids, double vision or blurred vision," the spokesman said.

     The DH urged the public to observe 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.

     "Those who must receive injections outside Hong Kong should pay special attention to ensure that practitioners are qualified or registered with relevant jurisdictions. If in doubt, stop receiving it immediately. Promptly consult qualified healthcare professionals if feeling unwell," the spokesman added.

     The public may visit these 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, July 21, 2016
Issued at HKT 18:00

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