Methanol Poisoning Cases in Brazil Rise to 43 Amid Ongoing Investigations
The methanol poisoning crisis in Brazil sees confirmed cases rise to 43, prompting urgent health measures and investigations.
- • 43 suspected methanol poisoning cases reported in Brazil
- • Health Minister calls the situation unprecedented
- • Federal Police investigating possible involvement of criminal organizations
- • Senator urges public to seek medical help for intoxication symptoms
Key details
Brazil is facing a significant health crisis due to a surge in methanol poisoning cases, with the Ministry of Health reporting a total of 43 suspected cases as of October 2, 2025. Notably, 39 of these cases emerge from São Paulo, where 10 have been confirmed and 29 are under investigation; additionally, four cases are under investigation in Pernambuco. Tragically, there has been one confirmed fatality linked to methanol exposure, with seven more deaths under scrutiny — including five in São Paulo and two in Pernambuco.
Health Minister Alexandre Padilha has labeled the current situation as "abnormal and unprecedented," highlighting that the number of cases has surpassed the typical annual average of 20 for methanol poisoning in Brazil. The Federal Police are now probing potential criminal activity, suspecting a connection to organized crime involved in the adulteration of alcoholic beverages. To coordinate the response, the Ministry of Health has established an extraordinary Situation Room, comprising technical teams from various health councils to analyze cases and manage preventive measures.
In light of the health crisis, Senator Nelsinho Trad emphasized the severity of the situation during a recent speech, urging for rigorous investigations into the methanol-related deaths. He expressed concern about public awareness, stating that individuals experiencing symptoms of methanol poisoning, such as nausea and dizziness, should seek immediate medical attention. Trad underscored the urgency for accountability against those responsible for the adulteration of alcohol, hinting at the potential for unreported cases, as diagnosing methanol poisoning can be challenging.
As investigations continue, the government is intensifying its response to ensure public safety, with health authorities closely monitoring the situation and enacting preventive campaigns to mitigate further risks associated with adulterated alcoholic products.