The number of people who have died from suspected alcohol poisoning in parts of Ondo State has increased to 30, with health authorities reporting 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 still receiving treatment in hospitals while 27 others were being monitored by medical personnel.
The incident was reported on Saturday, September 5, in Odigbo town and Araromi-Obu after residents allegedly consumed an herbal liquid substance believed to contain alcohol. Some of those who consumed the substance reportedly lost consciousness before dying at various locations.
According to Ajaka, cases have been identified in Orita Odigbo, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Odole, Okele and Oniparaga communities.
He said males accounted for about 95 per cent of those affected, with the victims ranging in age from 16 to 55.
The commissioner said the affected residents exhibited various symptoms, including headaches, body pains, weakness, impaired vision, breathing difficulties and altered consciousness. Some patients, he added, experienced rapid deterioration after developing the symptoms.
“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 explained that health officials had collected 36 blood and urine samples from affected persons for laboratory testing. Samples of the suspected alcoholic substances had also been obtained and sent for toxicological examination to determine what may have caused the illnesses and deaths.
He said the investigation was being carried out alongside relevant regulatory and security agencies, noting that several suspects had already been arrested in connection with the incident.
In response to the outbreak, the Ondo State Government has placed a temporary restriction on the production and sale of locally brewed alcoholic drinks and alcoholic herbal beverages in Odigbo Local Government Area.
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The commissioner advised residents to stay away from alcoholic products obtained from unlicensed producers or sellers, particularly as investigations into the incident continue.
He also urged anyone who experiences blurred vision, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness, confusion or loss of consciousness after consuming alcohol to seek medical attention immediately.
Ajaka further called on residents and community leaders to notify health authorities without delay whenever they notice unusual illnesses or sudden deaths in their communities.