Health professionals were seen diligently attending to victims at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, Kannayao district, Bangkok, as emergency measures were put into action Saturday night. The grim scene unfolded after a distressing episode of methanol intoxication spiraled out of control in the Min Buri district. The illicit consumption of moonshine led to one tragic death and 20 others were rushed to various hospitals, suffering from severe symptoms.
Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital reported on Sunday that 21 individuals had been admitted after ingesting the contaminated brew, setting off a cascade of medical crises. According to Dr. Amporn Benjaponpitak, the director-general of the Department of Medical Services (DMS), the patients were treated for an alarming array of symptoms, including dizziness, severe stomach pain, relentless vomiting, impaired vision, and even seizures.
“Symptoms generally manifest between 16 to 24 hours post-consumption of such moonshine,” Dr. Amporn elaborated, shedding light on the daunting reality of methanol poisoning. The afflicted individuals span an age range predominantly between 30 and 40 years, with the exception of one 69-year-old man.
The rush to provide urgent care had 13 patients admitted to Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, five to Navamin 9 Hospital, one to Rajavithi Hospital, and another to Kasemrad Ramkhamhaeng Hospital; tragically, one person couldn’t be saved and passed away at Synphaet Serirak Hospital. Six of the patients experienced cardiac arrests but were revived via CPR.
Dr. Amporn highlighted the grim prognosis for some, noting that kidney failure might necessitate lifetime dialysis for a few patients, while seven are now battling severe visual impairment.
The epicenter of this alarming episode was traced back to moonshine shops predominantly located in Min Buri and Khlong Sam Wa districts, with Soi Hathai Rat 33 being a particular hotspot. Payung Boonsomsuwan, director of the Office of Prevention and Suppression of the Excise Department, stated that liquor samples collected from three stalls in these districts tested positive for methanol contamination.
On further inspection, a factory in Saphan Sung district was identified as a nefarious production site, where methanol was mixed with water to create a deadly 40% proof liquor. This toxic concoction was then distributed to 18 stalls scattered across six districts, notably Min Buri, Khlong Sam Wa, Lat Krabang, Prawet, Khan Na Yao, and Nong Chok.
In response, the authorities have ordered the immediate closure of all 18 implicated shops. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has issued a stern warning to the public, cautioning them against indulging in illegal homebrews or any alcoholic beverages that lack an excise stamp.
The harrowing events serve as a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the shadows of unregulated alcohol consumption, urging a community-wide vigilance and adherence to legal standards for safety.
Why do people still consume illegal moonshine when the risks are so well-known?
It’s cheaper and more accessible in some areas. Poverty forces people to take these risks.
That doesn’t make it any less tragic. Governments need to do more to regulate and educate citizens on the dangers.
Also, let’s not forget the culture and tradition aspect. Many people grew up with homemade alcohol.
The government should be more stringent in monitoring these illegal productions.
Easier said than done. Corruption and lack of resources are major hurdles.
True, but isn’t public safety worth the investment? The human cost is too high.
Stronger community awareness programs could also help. People need to know the risks.
I don’t get why people would risk drinking something without an excise stamp.
Desperation and lack of better options can lead to poor decisions.
But there should be more outreach and education, right? So people don’t find themselves in such positions.
This is what happens when the government taxes liquor too heavily.
Or you know, when people break the law. The taxes are there for a reason.
This isn’t a new problem – illicit alcohol has always been a risky business.
Indeed, prohibition-era America had similar issues. History tends to repeat itself.
One death is one too many. This could have been prevented.
Agreed. Imagine the heartbreak for the families involved.
Absolutely. I can’t imagine losing a loved one like that.
The black market exists for a reason. It’s a symptom of larger economic issues.
Moonshine is just plain dangerous. Stick to store-bought, folks.
Easier said than done for some people. Not everyone has the money or access.
True, but surely there’s some safer way to enjoy a drink without risking your life?
Are we sure it’s just methanol? Could there be other contaminants?
Methanol is the main culprit here, but other contaminants can certainly amplify the risk.
I’m new to Bangkok. Is this kind of poisoning common?
It’s not unheard of, sadly. Stick to regulated spots for your own safety.
Methanol is incredibly toxic. Even small amounts can cause serious damage.
Yes, like permanent blindness or even death.
Tragic event. Hopefully, this raises awareness about the dangers of unregulated alcohol.
I think more needs to be done to support communities and reduce the need for such dangerous substitutes.
Totally. Community programs and better economic policies would help a lot.
There’s got to be a crackdown on these illegal operations to prevent further tragedies.
Wouldn’t modern tech and traceability help in curbing such illegal distilleries?
Technically yes, but implementing and enforcing such measures are challenging.