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British Foreign Office has placed an additional eleven further destinations to its official alert list concerning the risks of methanol toxicity from adulterated alcoholic drinks.

This updated warning covers Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda due to reports of "an international surge in the incidence of confirmed occurrences" of methanol poisoning.

Just a few weeks ago, authorities had already placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing roster, following multiple notable cases like the fatal demise of 6 visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being warned that even tiny quantities of toxic alcohol can result in permanent eye damage or fatality within 12 to 48 hrs.

What is Toxic Alcohol and How is it Employed?

Toxic alcohol is a harmful substance commonly used in coolant, car cleaning liquid, and paint thinner. This substance is not designed for drinking.

While it is inherently formed during the manufacture of alcoholic drinks, reputable manufacturers bring it down to non-dangerous concentrations for ingestion through the purification method.

However in certain nations, it is illegally mixed into spirits to cut costs, and because it is flavorless and smell-free, it is very difficult to identify.

Government Advice for Tourists

Foreign Office representative the minister stated that all travellers should know the signs of toxic alcohol toxicity.

"While consuming alcohol abroad, choose reputable establishments and avoid unlicensed drinks or unspecified beverages," the official warned.

"Should anything appears suspicious, for example a headache that's much more severe than typical or vision problems – seek medical attention fast."

The entire roster of destinations listed as posing a risk of methanol toxicity presently covers: Brazil, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Kenya, Laos, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, and Vietnam.

Important Facts Regarding Toxic Alcohol Poisoning

• Methanol is a poisonous compound not meant for human consumption.
• Even small amounts can result in permanent eye damage or loss of life.
• Symptoms may include severe hangover, vomiting, belly ache, lightheadedness, and vision problems.
• Travelers are urged to only drink properly packaged alcohol from trusted establishments.
• If you suspect toxic alcohol poisoning, contact a doctor immediately.