Health Canada Investigates Deaths Linked to Bodico Hand Sanitiser
A couple of people died in Ontario allegedly after ingesting hand sanitiser, according to Health Canada.
CBC News reports that the Bodico sanitiser had methanol which can possibly be lethal once ingested, unlike other hand sanitisers that contain ethyl alcohol. The Centre of Forensic Sciences in Ontario has tested Bodico hand sanitisers and issued the confirmation that those did contain methanol. Strangely, the ingredients mentioned in the container label did not mention the ingredient in the list.
Methanol happens to be toxic alcohol which can be extremely harmful to the body. If ingested, methanol can cause blindness and even death. If methanol is applied to the bare skin, it can cause inflammation as well as irritation.
Meanwhile, Health Canada has asked consumers not to use Bodico hand sanitisers that belong to lot numbers B9001 and B9002. The 80-ounce bottles are labelled as 'Bodico Hand Sanitizer' and "Bodico Hand Sanitizer with Aloe and Vitamin E'. On the contrary, it is yet to be confirmed why those two consumed the hand sanitiser. Health officials strictly advise against swallowing hand sanitisers of any kind. Every year, plenty of teenagers get hospitalised due the consumption of hand sanitisers.
It is clearly mentioned on every bottle of hand sanitiser that the production must be used for external use only. It is also cautioned against its consumption. Health Canada is asking everyone to be strict about following the instructions written on the label and stay away from ingesting it.
In case you have concerns related to safety of health, you can call toll-free number 1-866-234-2345. You can also visit the Web page of MedEffect Canada on the procedure to report against any kind of adverse reaction. You can report it online or by fax or by mail. You can call Health Canada for media related queries as (613) 957-2983. For public queries, you can call (613) 957-2991.