AKURE — The death toll from the suspected consumption of contaminated herbal drinks and alcoholic concoctions in parts of Ondo State has risen to 49, while about 170 persons have been affected by the outbreak, the state government has said.
The incident, which has thrown several communities in Odigbo Local Government Area into mourning, was first reported earlier this month after residents developed severe health complications following the consumption of locally produced herbal mixtures and alcoholic drinks.
The affected communities include Odigbo town, Araromi-Obu, Newtown, Orita and other adjoining settlements, where dozens of residents reportedly fell ill within hours of consuming the substances.
Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Banji Ajaka, disclosed the latest figures while providing an update on the public health emergency.
According to him, health authorities have intensified surveillance, treatment and investigations to determine the exact cause of the deaths and illnesses.
Ajaka said many of the victims presented symptoms including severe headaches, body pains, weakness, visual impairment, breathing difficulties and loss of consciousness before their conditions deteriorated.
The state government had earlier ordered an immediate halt to the sale and consumption of locally produced alcoholic beverages, herbal drinks and other suspected concoctions in the affected areas as investigations continue.
Officials from the Ministries of Health and Environment, alongside security agencies, have launched a crackdown on the production and distribution of unapproved substances believed to be linked to the outbreak.
Samples of the suspected drinks have reportedly been collected for laboratory analysis.
Residents have been advised to avoid consuming uncertified herbal mixtures, alcoholic concoctions and other unregulated products pending the outcome of investigations.
The government also urged anyone experiencing unusual symptoms after consuming such substances to seek immediate medical attention.
The outbreak is one of the deadliest public health incidents recorded in the state in recent years and has raised concerns about the safety and regulation of locally produced herbal and alcoholic drinks. Investigations into the source and composition of the substances are ongoing.
