83 Suspected of Methyl Alcohol Poisoning in Ecuador: Report

Eighty-three people suspected of consuming industrial alcohol have received treatment, Ecuador’s Ministry of Health reported amid a rise of alcohol poisoning, which has led to 17 deaths so far.

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Of the 83 cases, 33 showed positive traces of methanol in their blood, while 41 were negative and another nine are under investigation, a statement from the ministry said.

The report continued on to say the undoctored alcohol was behind eleven deaths, while six others are still under investigation.

The Ministry advised the public to avoid purchasing or consuming any liquor from dubious sources and to seek immediate medical assistance if experiencing blurred vision, nausea, headaches, abdominal pain, prolonged hangover or unconsciousness following alcohol consumption.

In late October, the Interior Ministry reported 15 deaths and 21 hospitalized in Quito due to industrial alcohol consumption. Authorities conducted a nationwide investigation, raiding liquor and convenience stores which resulting in a seizure of over 4,000 liters of unregistered liquor.

Almost twenty stores were closed due to evidence found during police searches. In 2011, Ecuador registered over 50 deaths and 164 cases of methyl alcohol poisoning.