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British authorities has placed eleven more countries to its travel alert roster concerning the dangers of methanol toxicity from adulterated beverages.

This revised warning now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda after what officials describe as "an international surge in the incidence of documented incidents" of toxic alcohol poisoning.

Just a few weeks ago, officials had already placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing roster, after several notable events like the tragic loss of 6 travelers in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being warned that even minimal doses of toxic alcohol can lead to permanent eye damage or loss of life within twelve to forty-eight hours.

Exactly what is Industrial Alcohol and In what way is it Used?

Methanol is a harmful chemical commonly employed in coolant, windscreen washer fluid, and paint thinner. This substance is not intended for drinking.

While it is naturally produced during the manufacture of beverages, commercial firms lower it to non-dangerous concentrations for human consumption through the purification method.

Yet in certain nations, it is illegally mixed into spirits to save money, and since it is tasteless and smell-free, it is extremely challenging to identify.

Authorities' Recommendations for Tourists

Government official the minister emphasized that all travellers should be aware of the symptoms of toxic alcohol toxicity.

"When you are having drinks in foreign countries, choose reputable establishments and steer clear of unlicensed drinks or unspecified beverages," the official advised.

"Should anything feels off, for example a headache that's much more severe than normal or vision problems – seek medical attention right away."

The full list of countries noted as posing a risk of toxic alcohol 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 Details About Industrial Alcohol Poisoning

• Methanol is a harmful chemical not designed for drinking.
• Even tiny quantities can lead to blindness or death.
• Symptoms may include unusual fatigue, sickness, belly ache, lightheadedness, and vision problems.
• Tourists are advised to strictly consume properly packaged drinks from reputable sources.
• In case you think industrial alcohol poisoning, contact a doctor immediately.