Case study: COVID-19 and methanol poisoning in Azerbaijan

Overview

This case study describes the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on methanol poisonings in Azerbaijan and possible ways to increase the country’s capacity in chemicals management.

The goal of this case study is to increase the capacity of the public health system in Azerbaijan in management of methanol poisoning, as well as to inform the population about possible preventive measures based on assessment of poisonings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The objectives of the case study are to:

• carry out a detailed epidemiological study of acute methanol intoxication cases in order to identify potential causes and sources of poisoning;
• elaborate proposals to strengthen the capacity of the health-care system in diagnosis and management of methanol poisoning, including strengthening the role of the poison control centre; and
• develop and implement measures aimed at raising public awareness about prevention of methanol poisoning.