Serious Adverse Health Events, Including Death, Associated with Ingesting Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers Containing Methanol — Arizona and New Mexico, May–June 2020
Overview
Paper Summary
Fifteen cases of methanol poisoning associated with ingesting alcohol-based hand sanitizers were reported in Arizona and New Mexico between May and June 2020, resulting in four deaths and three cases of vision impairment. The report highlights the danger of ingesting hand sanitizers, especially those containing methanol, and emphasizes the importance of public health messaging and clinical awareness for early diagnosis and treatment.
Explain Like I'm Five
Scientists found that some people drank hand sanitizer and got very, very sick. Some even lost their eyesight or died, especially if the sanitizer had a dangerous chemical called methanol in it.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
One author (Steven Seifert) reported receiving personal fees from Taylor & Francis as Editor-in-Chief of Clinical Toxicology and from UpToDate as a paid author. Another author (Susan Smolinske) reported receiving grants from the Health Resources and Services Administration for poison centers.
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This report provides valuable public health information about a serious and emerging health threat. The investigation is well-conducted and provides important data for clinicians and public health officials. The identified limitations do not significantly detract from the overall value of the report.
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