Doctor from Kuban explains the mass-poisoning incidents in Sochi
The Krasnodar TV channel reported on comments made by Dr. Gorachev regarding the dangers of counterfeit alcohol and methanol poisoning. Recently, twelve people were poisoned by homemade moonshine in Adler, Russia, and earlier, both suspects in a similar case of fatal moonshine poisoning in Sochi were arrested.
To avoid counterfeit alcohol and prevent methanol poisoning incidents, several key strategies are recommended:
Visual and Product Authentication
When purchasing alcohol, it's essential to check for authentic packaging features. Look out for laser-etched lot codes or brand-specific markers, such as the ones found on genuine Glen’s Vodka bottles. Be wary of suspiciously cheap or poorly packaged alcohol, as it may be counterfeit. Use barcode or QR code authentication, though note that some counterfeiters may erase these; secured invisible QR codes can be more reliable.
Technological Methods
Advanced non-destructive analytical techniques like Raman spectroscopy can identify the chemical composition of alcohol, distinguishing genuine alcohol from counterfeit and hazardous substances like methanol. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags also enhance product traceability and help verify authenticity in supply chains.
Health and Safety Awareness
Recognizing symptoms of methanol poisoning is crucial. Symptoms include blurred vision or blindness, vomiting, seizures, loss of coordination, coma, and death in severe cases. If poisoning suspicion arises, do not consume more; seek immediate medical assistance.
General Precautions
Purchasing alcohol from reputable, licensed retailers can help reduce the risk of counterfeit products. Avoid homemade or illicitly sourced alcoholic beverages, which have higher risks of methanol contamination.
Dr. Alexander Gorachev, a methodologist at the Center for Public Health and Medical Prevention of the Kuban Ministry of Health, commented on the situation, emphasizing the dangers of methanol and the importance of taking precautions to avoid becoming a victim of counterfeit alcohol. Methanol is a technical spirit that is deadly even in small doses. The poisoning incidents serve as a reminder to always check the packaging and the presence of an excise mark when buying alcohol.
In case of poisoning, immediately call an ambulance and rinse the stomach, give the victim sorbents, and provide plenty of water to drink before the ambulance arrives. It is worth noting that methanol turns into formaldehyde and formic acid in the body, which can damage the nervous system, organs of sight, and breathing.
By following these guidelines, individuals can help protect themselves and others from the dangers of counterfeit alcohol and methanol poisoning.
- Methanol, a technical spirit, is deadly even in small doses, making it crucial to always check alcohol packaging and the presence of an excise mark when buying alcohol.
- Methanol poisoning can lead to symptoms such as blurred vision or blindness, vomiting, seizures, loss of coordination, coma, and death in severe cases, emphasizing the importance of seeking immediate medical assistance if poisoning suspicion arises.
- To prevent methanol poisoning incidents, strategies like visual and product authentication, technological methods, health and safety awareness, and general precautions should be followed, such as purchasing alcohol from reputable, licensed retailers and avoiding homemade or illicitly sourced alcoholic beverages.
- Advanced non-destructive analytical techniques like Raman spectroscopy can identify the chemical composition of alcohol, distinguishing genuine alcohol from counterfeit and hazardous substances like methanol.
- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags also enhance product traceability and help verify the authenticity of alcohol in supply chains.
- In case of poisoning, immediately call an ambulance, rinse the stomach, give the victim sorbents, and provide plenty of water to drink before the ambulance arrives.
- Incidents of methanol poisoning from counterfeit alcohol, such as the recent cases in Adler and Sochi, Russia, serve as reminders of the importance of being vigilant and taking necessary precautions to avoid becoming a victim.
