The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (September 26) investigating a suspected case of poisoning affecting a family of two persons after consumption of soup containing Radix Fici Simplicissimae, and appealed to members of the public not to collect, buy or consume medicinal plants of unknown origin.

     The case involves two females aged 46 and 71 who consumed self-prepared soup containing Radix Fici Simplicissimae at home in the evening of September 25 and developed dizziness, blurring of vision and vomiting one to two hours after consumption. They attended the Accident and Emergency Department of United Christian Hospital and are in stable condition.

     Their urine specimens and the soup remnants will be sent for laboratory testing.

     Initial investigations revealed that the Radix Fici Simplicissimae concerned had been purchased in the Mainland. The CHP's investigations are ongoing.

     "Radix Fici Simplicissimae is not toxic, but resembles some toxic plants such as Gelsemium elegans and can be mixed up with these substances," a spokesman for the CHP explained.

     "Members of the public should not collect from the wild, buy or consume medicinal plants of unknown origin. They should purchase medicinal plants from licensed shops with good reputations. If they feel unwell after consumption, they should seek advice from healthcare professionals immediately," the spokesman advised.

Ends/Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Issued at HKT 15:30

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