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Suspected Methanol Poisoning in Uganda
Tuesday, 1 September, 2009
An outbreak of cases - with so far 9 deaths - characterised by severe respiratory symptoms and blindness in a Kampala suburb has prompted a police investigation on the basis of suspected methanol intoxication.
There were related reports, 3 months ago, of 5 deaths in the Western Uganda town of Kasese following consumption of liquor packed locally in the town. In 2007, 40 people with a presentation similar to the symptoms of the current deaths died in Kampala and nearby districts after drinking a toxic local gin. The investigation into those cases by the Ministry of Health revealed that the cases had been exposed to a local gin that contained too much methanol . Methanol toxicity remains a common problem in many parts of the developing world, where methanol is often a component of bootleg alcohol, which is made in rural regions. Because of its low cost, it is often consumed by those in lower socioeconomic classes.
In June we reported on cases of methanol poisoning (including deaths in two tourists)in Bali caused by adulteration of local arak, so we repeat the warning note to tourists that whilst it may seem exotic to partake of cheap home-made “traditional” drinks it is a whole lot safer to stick to established if more expensive brands.
