Overview

• Health officials reported 225 suspected methanol poisonings nationwide, including 192 in São Paulo, with two deaths confirmed and 13 under investigation.
• The federal response includes urgent procurement of 12,000 vials of pharmaceutical ethanol and 2,500 units of imported fomepizole for distribution to hospitals and toxicology centers.
• Diagnostic capacity was expanded through LACEN-DF, the São Paulo municipal lab, and INCQS/Fiocruz, and more than 600 compounding pharmacies were authorized to produce pharmaceutical ethanol.
• Police and regulators intensified inspections, seizing more than 7,000 suspect bottles in São Paulo since September 29, temporarily closing 11 venues, and making the first arrest tied to alleged beverage falsification.
• Bars and restaurants report steep drops in sales of distilled drinks—up to 50% in some cases—as officials urge the public to avoid unverified spirits, with lawmakers weighing tougher penalties for adulteration.