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ODRC, health officials investigating suspected cases of botulism at Belmont Correctional Institution
(COLUMBUS)- The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) has announced that there are four suspected cases of botulism from Belmont Correctional Institution who are currently being treated at The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center (OSUMC). Based on available information, it is believed that these suspected cases are linked to contraband homemade alcohol (commonly referred to as ‘hooch’) consumed by the symptomatic individuals.
ODRC was notified by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) on August 30 of two suspected cases. The third and fourth cases developed within the following days. All four individuals have received anti-toxin medication from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.)
ODRC medical staff conducted education screenings with over 2,000 incarcerated individuals at Belmont Correctional Institution to determine if any other individuals consumed contraband alcohol within the last two weeks. The more than 2,000 individuals were medically evaluated and have not had symptoms. They will continue to be monitored per the recommendation of public health officials.
A targeted search of the housing areas associated with the suspected cases was conducted on Friday, August 30, and additional contraband homemade alcohol was confiscated. A second, full search of the facility was conducted today.
Botulism is not known to be contagious, and those who consumed the contaminated homemade alcohol are the only at-risk individuals. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and blurry vision.
ODRC continues to work with the CDC, ODH, OSUMC, and local public health officials on this matter.
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