The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is today (October 31) investigating a suspected case of poisoning related to the consumption of soup containing Radix Fici Simplicissimae suspected to be mixed with Gelsemium elegans, and appealed to members of the public not to collect, buy or consume medicinal plants of unknown origin.

     The case involves a family of four persons, comprising one male and three females, aged 2 to 68. They consumed self-prepared soup containing Radix Fici Simplicissimae at home last night (October 30) and developed dizziness around 30 minutes after consumption. They attended the Accident and Emergency Department of Yan Chai Hospital on the same day and were in a stable condition. Three of them have been discharged after treatment.

     Their urine samples and samples of the unused Radix Fici Simplicissimae have been sent for laboratory testing.

     Initial investigations revealed that the Radix Fici Simplicissimae concerned was bought by a family friend 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 it can be mixed up with these substances. Members of the public should purchase medicinal plants from licensed shops with a good reputation and should not consume medicinal plants of unknown origin. If they feel unwell after consumption, they should seek advice from healthcare professionals immediately," a spokesman for the CHP advised.

Ends/Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Issued at HKT 18:45

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