LA County health officials warn residents of illness associated with deer-antler tea

April 29--A Los Angeles County resident has been sickened and another person may have become ill after drinking deer-antler tea purchased locally, according to a warning issued Friday by public health officials.

A preliminary investigation has found that the two people who drank the tea purchased it in March, but it was unclear where they bought the product.

Public health officials urged residents who purchased the tea, which comes in a 9-inch long, plastic sealed pouch with drawings of gold deer on it, to dispose of it.

Botulism was confirmed in one resident and is suspected in the other, health officials said. The illness is rare but serious and is caused by a nerve toxin, noted health officials.

Symptoms include double or blurred vision, slurred speech, and difficulty swallowing and weakness.

"If untreated, these symptoms may progress to cause paralysis of the respiratory muscles, arms, legs, and trunk," health officials warned. "People experiencing symptoms of botulism, who have recently drunk the tea, should seek immediate medical attention."

The tea is used as a health supplement within some Asian communities although its use has gained popularity in the West. The tea can help people suffering from arthritis and other joint issues, according to various websites.

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