The following is jointly issued by Department of Health and Customs and Excise Department:
The Department of Health and the Customs and Excise Department were investigating a case involving a 12-month-old boy who developed blueness on his lips after playing stamped ink toys.
Initial investigation revealed that the boy was found to have stamped ink on his face, lips, tongue and hands while playing at home on August 26. He developed blueness on his lips and was admitted to Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital.
He was treated and discharged on August 28. His family contacts did not have any symptoms.
He was diagnosed to have methaemoglobinaemia - a blood disease in which the haemoglobin fails to carry the normal amount of oxygen throughout the human body, hence leading to blueness due to a lack of oxygen.
Investigation is in progress to ascertain whether the stamped ink is the cause of the case. Samples of the toys have been sent for laboratory testing.
Members of the public should store and label potentially hazardous materials properly to avoid unintentional ingestion and contact, especially by children and follow strictly instructions of using household products, toys and drugs. Anyone feeling unwell should seek medical advice promptly.
DH had notified the Customs and Excise Department for follow-up action. Customs investigation into this case is continuing.
For report about unsafe toys and children's products, consumers can write to the Consumer Protection and Prosecution Bureau, Customs and Excise Department at 11/F, North Point Government Offices, 333 Java Road, North Point or call the Customs 24-hour hotline at 2545 6182.
Under the Toys and Children's Products Safety Ordinance, it is an offence to manufacture, import or supply a toy unless the toy complies with safety standards.
The Ordinance carries a maximum penalty of a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for one year on first conviction, and a $500,000 fine and two years' imprisonment on subsequent conviction.
Ends/Thursday, August 31, 2006