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Chemical analysis of the herbal medicine used in all three cases confirmed the presence of podophyllotoxin, a toxin commonly found in Gwai Kuo. It is suspected that the poisoning was due to the unintentional contamination of Wai Ling Sin by Gwai Kuo.
"We are concerned about the incidents and follow-up actions have been taken to trace the source of the incriminated herbs," the spokesman said.
"The Department of Health has alerted wholesalers of herbal medicine and retailers in the NT West region to examine their stock of Wai Ling Sin and to submit any suspected contaminated batches to the Department for examination."
The spokesman noted that traditional Chinese herbal medicine has been commonly used by the Chinese community. If used properly, they do not have harmful effects.
The three patients were one man and two women. The man involved in the first case had already been discharged. The conditions of the other two were improving.
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Trial passage at night of large vessel at Ma Wan
The Marine Department is evaluating the data gathered from a one-off trial transit of a 292-metre container vessel at night through the Ma Wan Channel last (Tuesday) night.
At present ships exceeding 183 metres are not allowed to pass through the channel at night though no such restriction is imposed during day time. But a trial scheme to allow ships between 183 and 250 metres to pass through the channel at night is underway.
Due to the geographical and currents constraints, large ships passing through Ma Wan are restricted by tidal windows, effectively reducing the use of the channel by large ships.
"Piloting a ship through the channel in darkness is more difficult and posed more risks than in day time," the Director of Marine, Mr Ian Dale, said.
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