Overview
- State forensic tests found methanol in both seized alcoholic beverages and the blood of the seven hospitalized residents, confirming intoxication.
- Patients from the engagement party cluster remain under care, with at least one intubated and some undergoing hemodialysis; two were transferred to Instituto Couto Maia in Salvador and a third was later attended there.
- Ribeira do Pombal issued a decree suspending sale, consumption, supply, and distribution of distilled drinks across the municipality through January 5, with inspections and penalties for violations.
- The Civil Police opened an inquiry, interdicted the vendor linked to the drinks, seized bottles for analysis, and continue to investigate potential criminal responsibility.
- Brazil’s Health Ministry is monitoring the cases and sent 100 units of fomepizole to Bahia, which reports additional state stocks, in the context of a nationwide surge that confirmed at least 73 cases and 22 deaths earlier this year.