By Dorothy Musyoka
The Ministry of Health, through its State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of three lives in Nakuru County due to the consumption of illicit alcohol.
According to the press dispatch by the Ministry, the unfortunate incident sheds light on the severe dangers posed by the consumption of unregulated and unlicensed alcoholic beverages.
“This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the grave dangers associated with consuming unregulated and unlicensed alcoholic beverages. Illicit alcohol often contains harmful substances such as methanol, which can be fatal. Consuming these substances can lead to serious health consequences, including blindness, organ damage, and even death,” read the statement.
Following the deaths, the Ministry has urged the public to exercise caution and prioritize their safety by:
- Consuming legally registered and licensed alcohol by the government agencies, a move that ensures alcohol meets stringent quality control standards and is safe for consumption.
- Avoiding the purchase of alcohol from unknown or suspicious sources, while being wary of cheap or counterfeit products.
- Practicing responsible alcohol consumption to safeguard personal health, especially during the festive season.
This tragic event underscores the importance of ongoing public awareness campaigns spearheaded by the Ministry’s Division of Drug and Substance Abuse Control.
These campaigns aim to educate Kenyans on the risks associated with harmful substances, including illicit alcohol, novel nicotine products, and other emerging drugs.