Director of Health Dr Lam Ping-yan has warned smokers not to use 'electronic cigarettes' as their safety, efficacy and quality have to be established.

Manufacturers say the virtual cigarettes give smokers a nicotine fix without using real smoke. Dr Lam said several brands of e-cigarettes have been found for sale online and in local shops.

Department staff raided a shop in Sham Shui Po today seizing nine types of e-cigarettes. Initial tests on a sample showed it contained nicotine.

Under the Pharmacy & Poisons Ordinance e-cigarettes containing nicotine and marked as tobacco cessation products are classified as pharmaceutical products requiring registration in Hong Kong. Possession or sale of an unregistered pharmaceutical product, and possession of Part I poisons without authority warrants two-years' jail and a $100,000 fine.

People using e-cigarettes should stop. Smokers who want to quit smoking should seek advice from medical professionals. For more information click here.