Zarqa: The Ministry of Health reported that nine individuals have died and 27 others have been hospitalized due to poisoning after consuming alcohol contaminated with methanol, a highly toxic substance. The affected individuals are currently receiving intensive medical care, including dialysis, in hospitals located in Zarqa, Amman, and Balqa.
According to Jordan News Agency, Imad Abu Yaqeen, Director of the Technical Affairs Department at the Ministry, stated that the majority of those hospitalized underwent immediate dialysis to remove toxins from their bloodstream. Most patients are in critical condition, with some requiring ventilator support in intensive care units.
Abu Yaqeen highlighted the dangers posed by industrial methanol, which is not intended for human consumption. Used as a solvent in paints and as a fuel additive, methanol is converted in the liver into toxic substances that impair cellular energy production. It affects nerve cells in the brain and retina, leading to increased blood acidity, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, and blurred vision that can result in blindness, alongside severe headaches, delirium, and multiple organ failure.
He explained that symptoms may manifest within 2-3 hours of ingestion but can be delayed up to 36 hours depending on the dose consumed. Dialysis remains the "most important life-saving measure," along with ventilator support, although these interventions may be less effective if large quantities of methanol are ingested.
Abu Yaqeen warned against consuming any alcohol during this period, noting that regular alcohol can harm the liver and kidneys and elevate blood sugar and lipid levels. Contaminated alcohol, even in small amounts, can be fatal.
He urged anyone experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention at the emergency departments of hospitals across the Kingdom, emphasizing that rapid intervention is crucial for survival. He recounted that the first cases at Zarqa Government Hospital exhibited symptoms of poisoning from an unknown substance, characterized by increased blood acidity, which prompted urgent testing and medical intervention. It was subsequently confirmed that these individuals had consumed alcohol contaminated with methanol.
The Ministry of Health continues to enhance preparedness in emergency and ambulance departments nationwide to handle any new cases and ensure prompt treatment.