30 Mar 2011
The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health is investigating a report from the Hospital Authority involving a 24-year-old Indonesian woman who reportedly felt unwell after consuming bottled water.
Initial investigation revealed that the patient developed throat pain and vomiting on March 26 immediately after drinking a bottle of distilled water bought from a petrol station. She was admitted to Princess Margaret Hospital on the same day and was discharged on March 28.
Preliminary laboratory tests conducted by the hospital on the sample submitted showed the presence of sodium hydroxide.
The CHP is collaborating with the Hong Kong Police Force and the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department to determine the cause of the incident.