A surge in methanol poisoning linked to contaminated alcohol has sparked a nationwide health alert in Brazil, with fatalities rising and hundreds of cases under scrutiny.
Health officials have confirmed 16 cases of methanol poisoning across 13 states, with over 200 more being investigated. At least 15 deaths are suspected to be tied to the crisis, which has put hospitals and authorities on high alert. São Paulo, the epicenter of the outbreak, has seen the highest number of reported incidents.
🚨 Why it matters: Methanol, a toxic alcohol often used in industrial products, can cause blindness, organ failure, or death when consumed. It’s suspected that bootleg or improperly produced drinks containing the chemical have entered the market, targeting unsuspecting consumers.
💡 What’s next: Authorities are urging Brazilians to avoid unregulated alcohol products and report suspicious beverages. "We’re working with local vendors to identify contaminated batches," said a São Paulo health official. Meanwhile, labs are racing to test samples and trace the source of the tainted drinks.
🌎 Global context: Methanol poisoning outbreaks have occurred in other countries, including Indonesia and India, often linked to illicit liquor. Experts say economic pressures and lax regulations can fuel such crises.
