HK woman hospitalized after suspected botulism at mainland clinic

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) announced on Friday that they are investigating a probable case of botulism involving a 32-year-old woman who received botulinum toxin injections at an unverified beauty clinic in Shenzhen.

The patient developed severe symptoms including shoulder weakness, swallowing difficulties, and breathing problems shortly after receiving the injections on July 1 and was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, where she remains in stable condition.

The CHP has issued urgent warnings to the public following this incident. 

They emphasized that botulinum toxin injections in Hong Kong should only be administered by registered medical professionals after proper clinical assessment.

According to the patient, the person who performed the injections in Shenzhen claimed to be a doctor, but the clinic's credentials remain unverified.

Health officials have alerted mainland authorities about the case and are conducting an epidemiological investigation. 

The CHP stressed that injections obtained from unregulated sources may contain contaminants or incorrect dosages, potentially leading to life-threatening complications like muscle paralysis or respiratory failure. 

Symptoms of botulism poisoning can include drooping eyelids, blurred vision, speech difficulties, and problems with swallowing or breathing, which may appear hours, days or even weeks after injection.

The CHP advises the public to thoroughly verify a practitioner's qualifications through the Medical Council of Hong Kong before undergoing any injections and to seek immediate medical attention if any adverse symptoms develop after treatment.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and have urged anyone with similar symptoms following cosmetic procedures to contact health professionals immediately.