The death toll from suspected alcohol poisoning in two communities in Ondo State has risen to 30, while health authorities have recorded 60 cases linked to the incident.
The state Commissioner for Health, Banji Ajaka, disclosed the latest figures on Friday in Akure, saying three affected persons were currently receiving treatment in hospitals, while another 27 remained under medical observation.
The incident occurred on Saturday, September 5, in Odigbo town and Araromi-Obu after residents reportedly consumed an herbal liquid substance. Some of those who consumed the substance allegedly became unconscious before dying at different locations.
According to Ajaka, the affected cases were recorded mainly in Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Odole, Okele and Oniparaga communities. He added that about 95 percent of those affected were males between the ages of 16 and 55.
The commissioner said patients presented with symptoms such as headache, body pain, weakness, visual disturbance, difficulty breathing and altered consciousness. Some of the patients reportedly experienced rapid deterioration.
“The pattern of illness and reported history of exposure have raised strong epidemiological suspicion of exposure to a probable toxic alcoholic substance,” Ajaka said.
“However, we are yet to have laboratory evidence of the cause of the deaths.”
Ajaka disclosed that 36 blood and urine samples had been collected and sent for laboratory analysis. Samples of the suspected alcoholic substances were also submitted for toxicological investigations to determine what may have caused the deaths and illnesses.
He said the investigation was being carried out in collaboration with relevant regulatory and security agencies, noting that several suspects had already been taken into custody.
In an effort to prevent additional cases, the Ondo State Government has imposed a temporary ban on the production and sale of locally brewed alcoholic and alcoholic herbal beverages in Odigbo Local Government Area.
The commissioner advised residents to stay away from alcoholic products obtained from unlicensed sources. He also urged anyone who develops blurred vision, breathing difficulty, sudden weakness, confusion or loss of consciousness after consuming alcohol to seek immediate medical attention.
Ajaka further appealed to residents and community leaders to report unusual illnesses and sudden deaths to health authorities without delay.
Source: Ondo State Ministry of Health
