Three people have died after consuming illicit alcohol in Nakuru County.
In a statement issued on Sunday, December 22, 2024, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni expressed deep sadness over the tragic incident.
She cautioned the public against consuming unregistered and unlicensed alcoholic beverages, highlighting the severe health risks associated with such products.
“The State Department of Public Health and Professional Standards, Ministry of Health is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of three lives in Nakuru County following the consumption of illicit alcohol. This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the grave dangers associated with consuming unregulated and unlicensed alcoholic beverages,” PS Muthoni stated.
Muthoni noted that illicit alcohol often contains harmful substances such as methanol, which can cause fatal consequences. She explained that consuming such products could lead to severe health complications, including blindness, organ damage, and death.
To prevent further tragedies, the Ministry urged the public to only consume alcohol that is legally registered and licensed by government agencies. Such products, Muthoni said, undergo proper quality control and meet safety standards. Additionally, Kenyans were advised to avoid purchasing alcohol from unknown or untrustworthy sources, especially those suspiciously cheap or counterfeit.
“Consuming these substances can lead to serious health consequences, including blindness, organ damage, and even death. We urge the public to exercise extreme caution and prioritize their safety by: I. Only consuming alcohol that is legally registered and licensed by government agencies. This ensures that the alcohol has undergone proper quality control and meets safety standards. II. Avoiding purchasing alcohol from unknown or untrustworthy sources,” the statement read in part.
The PS also called for responsible alcohol consumption during the festive season, emphasizing the need to avoid excessive drinking. She underscored the importance of ongoing public awareness campaigns led by the Division of Drug and Substance Abuse Control within the ministry, which aims to educate the public on the dangers of drugs, illicit substances, and emerging tobacco products.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives,” Muthoni said.
— Ministry of Health (@MOH_Kenya) December 22, 2024
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