In Nigeria, at least 49 people have died after a sudden outbreak of methanol poisoning has swept the country, health authorities say.
Investigations point to a locally produced herbal alcoholic beverage known as “Monkey Tail” as a possible source of the toxic alcohol, residents told the Associated Press. The drink has not yet been officially confirmed as the culprit.
Authorities are continuing to probe the origin of the contamination and are urging anyone who has consumed the beverage to seek medical attention immediately.
Methanol poisoning can occur when methanol, a toxic alcohol, is present in illicit or improperly produced alcoholic drinks. The incident has prompted a nationwide call for stricter regulation of homemade spirits.
Health officials have not yet released further details on the scope of the outbreak or the steps being taken to prevent further fatalities.
<small>Source: Africanews — read the original story there.</small>
