Brazil faces methanol poisoning outbreak with 127 suspected cases

Brazil is facing a significant public health crisis due to an outbreak of methanol poisoning linked to adulterated alcoholic beverages, primarily in São Paulo but also reported in multiple other states. Confirmed cases have risen to 127, with 11 laboratory-confirmed deaths and several others under investigation, prompting authorities to urge the public to avoid distilled spirits, especially those of uncertain origin. The Ministry of Health is actively responding by increasing stocks of antidotes like pharmaceutical ethanol and acquiring fomepizole treatments, while coordinating with state health departments and international partners. Symptoms of methanol poisoning include nausea, abdominal pain, blurred vision, and can lead to irreversible blindness or death without rapid treatment. The crisis has altered drinking habits, with bars reporting a complete halt in cocktail sales, and authorities emphasizing the need for vigilance in alcohol consumption and swift medical intervention. Experts highlight the recurring pattern of methanol poisoning outbreaks linked to counterfeit alcohol in Brazil and other countries, underscoring the need for enhanced supply-chain enforcement and public awareness to prevent future incidents.