In Brazil, three people have died and over 200 more have fallen ill due to a surge in methanol poisoning linked to likely contaminated alcohol.
The deceased include Bruna Araujo de Sousa, 30; Marcos Antonio Jorge Jr., 46; and Ricardo Lopez Mira, 50. Reports indicate they consumed toxic beverages at separate bars from mid-September to early October.
So far, around 225 cases have been reported, primarily in São Paulo, which is a major cultural center with a population of about 12 million.
Authorities have shut down at least 11 establishments and confiscated over 10,000 bottles of alcohol.
It’s unclear if the spread of contamination was unintentional. Officials are warning the public against consuming bootleg alcohol and any drinks lacking proper labeling, safety seals, or tax stamps.
“It’s best to steer clear of distilled products, particularly those that are colorless, unless you can verify their origin. These aren’t exactly necessities,” stated Alexandre Padilla, Brazil’s Health Minister.
This sentiment is echoed by various bar owners who are noticing increased concern among patrons. “Clients are apprehensive, advising against cocktails,” shared Edison Trindade, a bar manager in São Paulo.
Methanol, while a form of alcohol, is typically found in solvents, fuels, and antifreeze—and even small amounts can be deadly. Most alcoholic beverages contain ethanol instead.
Symptoms of methanol poisoning can resemble those of a hangover, which can delay recognition of the illness until it becomes severe.
Recent reports indicate that individuals have been hospitalized with serious symptoms, including blindness.
Local media noted that de Souza, Jorge Jr., and Lopez Mira succumbed within days after consuming tainted vodka in various São Paulo bars.
The São Paulo province, along with the National Health Authority, has pledged to investigate other potential methanol poisoning deaths.
This isn’t the first incidence of such an outbreak in Brazil. In 1999, for example, at least 51 individuals died from methanol poisoning in Bahia, about 1,000 miles from Rio de Janeiro.
In 2022, neighboring Peru experienced a similar crisis, marked by at least 54 related fatalities.
