Summary
Brazil's Health Minister urged people to avoid drinking distilled spirits due to increasing cases of methanol poisoning, which has caused one death and several hospitalizations. The government is taking steps to address the issue, including purchasing an antidote and increasing the supply of pharmaceutical ethanol for treatment.
Key Facts
- Brazil reported over 100 suspected cases of methanol poisoning, mainly in São Paulo.
- One person died, and 11 other deaths are under investigation.
- Methanol is an industrial alcohol sometimes added to counterfeit drinks, causing severe health problems.
- Brazil acquired 2,500 doses of Fomepizole, a methanol poisoning antidote.
- The country purchased 150,000 ampoules of pharmaceutical ethanol to aid treatment efforts.
- Health officials advise against drinking distilled spirits unless their origin is verified.
- Some people in Brazil are opting for beer and wine over spirits for safety reasons.
- Authorities continue to investigate and monitor the methanol poisoning situation.
