MoH directives after illicit brew kills 3 in Nakuru

The Ministry of Health has urged Kenyans to exercise extreme caution and prioritise their safety when consuming alcoholic beverages during the festive season

Public Health and Professional Standards PS Mary Muthoni in a statement on Sunday released directives following the death of three people in Nakuru.

The three died after consuming illicit alcohol in Lanet in Bahati, Nakuru County.

Muthoni emphasised the urgent need for public caution regarding unregulated alcoholic beverages.

To prevent such tragedies, the ministry urged Kenyans to adhere to three critical safety measures.

“Ensure all alcoholic beverages are legally registered and meet government safety standards,” Muthoni stated.

The PS also urged the public to avoid purchasing alcohol from unknown or untrustworthy sources and be wary of suspiciously cheap or counterfeit products.

Muthoni also encouraged the public to practice responsible alcohol consumption.

“Avoid excessive drinking, especially during the festive season,” Muthoni added.

According to Muthoni, illicit alcohol is often laced with harmful substances like methanol which poses severe health risks including blindness, organ damage, and death.

The ministry reiterated its commitment to public awareness through nationwide campaigns led by the Division of Drug and Substance Abuse Control.

These efforts aim to educate the public on the dangers of illicit substances, including emerging tobacco and nicotine products.

The PS also offered her condolences to the families that lost their loved ones as a result of consuming illicit brew.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives,” Muthoni said.

 Police said they feared more people might be affected by the drink amid the search for the source of the drink.

Nakuru County Teaching and Referral Hospital Medical Superintendent James Waweru confirmed that two people aged 37 and 41 died while they were receiving treatment at the facility.

One person was brought to the hospital morgue on Saturday morning.

Officials said it remains unclear where the illicit brew was sourced from as one of the deceased persons brought the liquor and shared it with his friends.