A recent outbreak of alcohol poisoning in Ondo State, Nigeria, has resulted in 48 deaths and 182 affected individuals, according to the NMA-NAFDAC Liaison Committee. The committee, led by Chairman Dr. Azim Adekunle Ashimi, disclosed that laboratory findings by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) confirmed high concentrations of methanol in a local concoction known as ‘monkey tail’. This toxic substance was found to be responsible for the mass deaths.
The affected individuals were primarily from Odigbo, Irele, and surrounding Local Government Areas (LGAs). Laboratory analysis of samples collected from these areas revealed high concentrations of methanol and cannabis indica. Out of the 182 affected individuals, 48 have died, while five have been rendered permanently blind and two others have suffered partial visual loss. The committee's findings have raised concerns about the safety of locally produced alcoholic beverages.
Methanol, an industrial solvent not intended for human consumption, is metabolized by the liver into formic acid, which attacks the optic nerve and retinal cells. When ingested, it can lead to irreversible blindness, severe metabolic acidosis, multi-organ failure, and death. The committee has warned that the consumption of such toxic substances can have devastating consequences for individuals and communities.
Victims of the poisoning presented with severe symptoms, including headache, abdominal pain, generalized weakness, altered consciousness, breathing difficulty, and blurred or "snowfield" vision. These symptoms typically occurred after consuming the ‘monkey tail’ drink. Healthcare providers in Ondo and neighboring states have been advised to maintain a high level of suspicion for patients with sudden visual impairment or unexplained metabolic acidosis.
The committee has recommended prompt medical attention for suspected cases, including resuscitation, airway management, correction of acidosis, administration of antidotes, and urgent haemodialysis where indicated. Healthcare providers have also been urged to report suspected cases to health authorities and NAFDAC immediately. This will enable swift action to be taken to prevent further cases and provide necessary treatment.
In response to the outbreak, 15 suspects have been arrested, and the committee has called for a full crackdown on informal distilleries, illegal herbal mixture blenders, and open-market distribution networks. The committee also advocates for nationwide sensitization against the consumption of unlabelled, unregistered alcoholic beverages and stricter control over the supply chain of methanol to prevent its diversion into beverage production.
The NMA-NAFDAC Liaison Committee's findings have highlighted the need for increased vigilance and regulation of locally produced alcoholic beverages. The committee's recommendations aim to prevent similar outbreaks in the future and ensure public safety. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with consuming unregulated substances and the importance of adhering to safety standards.
Key points
- 48 people have died and 182 have been affected by methanol poisoning from consuming 'monkey tail' in Ondo State, Nigeria.
- The NMA-NAFDAC Liaison Committee confirmed that high concentrations of methanol were found in the 'monkey tail' concoction.
- The committee has called for stricter control over the supply chain of methanol and a crackdown on informal distilleries and illegal herbal mixture blenders.
