Zambia: A 43 year old woman in Kalabo District of Western Province has lost her eye sight due to possible methanol poisoning. The woman allegedly consumed some intoxicant during a party after which she she felt sick and subsequently also lost her eyesight.
The police force has identified the victim, however, the police force as well as media partners have withheld her identity. The investigating officers visited the victim in the hospital where she is currently receiving treatment for Methanol poisoning.
She informed the investigating officers that she was invited to a party by colleagues where she consumed something she mistook as alcohol. The victim confirmed that she was not sure about the composition of what was being partaken.
“I started feeling dizzy after three days and subsequently suffered an impaired vision,” she narrated.
Kalabo District Health Director, Mbwayu Neto came forward to comment on the situation and shared some information. He confirmed the incident to the media and revealed that the victim is admitted in Kalabo District Hospital.
Dr Neto revealed to the media that the woman took the concoction in the company of 29 other members of the same community. The District Health Director stated that four males out of those who were affected have also lost their sight.
These four victims later died due to intoxication after drinking the suspected methylated spirit concoction.
Dr Neto explained that the locals had taken a concoction made out of a bottle of methylated spirit which was diluted with water into a 2.5 litres container and added sweetener.
“All was well until in the early hours of Monday when some of the drunkards started experiencing symptoms such as loss of eye sight, disorientation, unconsciousness, abnormal breathing pattern and whitish secretions from mouth,” he said.
Dr. Neto explained that 20 other survivors who were heavily intoxicated had been admitted to Kalabo District Hospital, Yuka Adventist Mission Hospital and Mitwi Health Post for treatment and observation.
“Their conditions are stable and have since been discharged,” he said.
Dr Neto added that four partakers from Sikongo, Nalolo and Shangombo districts have not been traced.