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Mercury poisoning case being investigated

  • 2002.09.10

The Department of Health (DH) advises that persons who have ever used the ointment (白癜風強力藥膏), prescribed by a Chinese medicine practitioner, 歐 兆 文 , should stop using it.

ointment

Source : Department of Health

A woman, who has been using this product for more than 20 years, presented with signs of mercury poisoning. Subsequent investigation confirmed that the samples of ointment contained significant amounts of mercury. It is believed that the product was prescribed, for treatment of vitiligo, by a Chinese medicine practitioner歐 兆 文who is practising in Causeway Bay.

Mercury compounds mainly affect the nervous system and kidneys. Symptoms may include hand tremors, visual or hearing loss, memory deterioration, irritability, and difficulty with sleeping. Kidney damage can result in oedema, particularly in the ankles and legs. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort may also occur. Mercury can also pass from the mother to the foetus resulting in impaired brain development. Some neurological effects can be long-lasting, while other health effects are usually reversible.

If you have ever used the ointment, you can call the DH hotline at 2961 8968 during office hours. Healthcare professionals will answer your questions and arrange screening if needed. If you have not used the ointment for more than 6 months, your body would have excreted most of the mercury. If you are concerned about your health, you may also seek medical advice from doctor.

Reprinted from Department of Health web page :
http://www.info.gov.hk/dh/new/mercury.htm