Photo Credit: TN
Did You Know That 19 People Have Died In Costa Rica Over The Last Month?
Over the last few months, we’ve been flooded with unfortunate news of several American tourists losing their lives while on vacation.
Most of the deaths we’ve heard about happened to people who visited the Dominican Republic over the last year. While we are not 100% certain of each cause of death, many have speculated that fake alcohol was to blame.
Now, it is being reported that 19 deaths in Costa Rica happened because of tainted alcohol as well.
Government officials have confiscated over 30,000 bottles suspected to have toxic levels of methanol, which if consumed in high amounts can be fatal. The amount of alcohol adulterated with methanol that a person can drink before suffering fatal consequences depends on the concentration as well as the person’s biological makeup, according to a statement made by the Ministry of Health, which was translated from Spanish.
They are now warning residents and tourists to stay away from brands that they know to be tainted. Those brands include Guaro Montano, Guaro Gran Apache, Star Welsh, Aguardiente Barón Rojo, Aguardiente Timbuka and Aguardiente Molotov.
If retailers are found to be selling these brands, while investigations are happening, they could face possible criminal sanctions.
The reported deaths span across the country including the areas of San José, Cartago, Limón, Guanacaste and Heredia. The victims range in age from 32 up to 72 years old. It was also reported that the deaths all occurred between now and early last month.
“It is important to emphasize that this information is preliminary since the investigations continue,” the statement said. “The Ministry of Health continues to carry out operations throughout the national territory in order to reduce the exposure of consumers to adulterated products.”
If you are heading to the San Jose province, be cautious of any alcohol you may consume.
