Residents of Ringaskiddy, a small coastal town in County Cork, Ireland, claim that emissions from a local Pfizer pharmaceutical plant, which manufactures Viagra, are having an unexpected effect on the local male population.
The villagers assert that fumes from the factory have been causing spontaneous arousal among men in the area.
The factory, which has been producing sildenafil citrate – the active ingredient in Viagra – since 1998, has become the source of local folklore and international attention.
Residents have nicknamed Ringaskiddy “Viagra village” due to these reported phenomena.
“One whiff and you’re stiff,” claimed Debbie O’Grady, a resident quoted by the Sunday Times. Local bartender Debbie O’Connell noted that living near the factory hasn’t caused any problems for the community, adding that there’s “something in the air.”
Pfizer, however, has firmly rejected these claims. The company stated that the manufacturing process is contained and controlled, and the plant’s emissions are closely monitored and regulated.
According to Pfizer’s representatives, the production of sildenafil citrate has no impact on the air quality in the surrounding area.
Environmental health experts note that pharmaceutical companies must follow strict protocols for containing active ingredients during the manufacturing process. Any emissions are subject to rigorous environmental regulations and regular testing.
The village of Ringaskiddy has been home to various pharmaceutical facilities for decades, contributing significantly to the local economy.
The Pfizer plant, in particular, has been a major employer in the region since it began operations.
Editor’s Note: This article is based on reports from Newsweek and the Sunday Times, including direct quotes from local residents. This story was originally reported in 2017. While residents have made these claims, no scientific evidence has been presented to support a connection between the plant’s emissions and the reported effects.