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British Foreign Office has placed an additional eleven more countries to its travel warning register about the dangers of methanol poisoning from contaminated alcoholic drinks.

This updated travel guidance features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following evidence showing "an international surge in the incidence of confirmed occurrences" of industrial alcohol contamination.

Only recently, authorities had previously included Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing register, after a number of serious events including the fatal death of half a dozen visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being warned that as little as small amounts of industrial alcohol can result in permanent eye damage or death within twelve to forty-eight hrs.

What is Industrial Alcohol and In what way is it Utilized?

Toxic alcohol is a poisonous chemical commonly utilized in antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, and paint thinner. It is not intended for human consumption.

Although it is naturally produced during the production of beverages, commercial firms bring it down to low, safe levels for ingestion through the distillation process.

But in some countries, it is surreptitiously added into alcoholic drinks to reduce expenses, and as it is tasteless and scentless, it is very difficult to notice.

Official Advice for Travelers

Authorities minister Hamish Falconer emphasized that every traveler should recognize the indicators of toxic alcohol toxicity.

"When you are drinking spirits abroad, stick to well-known venues and steer clear of local brews or free shots," Falconer said.

"In case something seems unusual, for example a headache that's way worse than typical or blurred eyesight – seek medical attention fast."

The complete list of countries listed as carrying a threat of toxic alcohol toxicity now includes: 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.

Essential Details About Toxic Alcohol Poisoning

• Methanol is a toxic substance not meant for human consumption.
• As little as small amounts can cause permanent eye damage or fatality.
• Symptoms can involve intense headache, sickness, belly ache, dizziness, and vision problems.
• Travelers are urged to strictly consume sealed drinks from reputable sources.
• In case you think industrial alcohol toxicity, get medical attention immediately.