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British Foreign Office has added an additional eleven further countries to its public alert register about the threats of methanol poisoning from adulterated spirits.

The expanded warning covers Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda due to reports of "a global increase in the frequency of reported cases" of toxic alcohol contamination.

Only a few weeks ago, the government had previously added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current roster, following multiple notable events such as the deadly death of half a dozen travelers in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being warned that even small amounts of methanol can lead to permanent eye damage or death within twelve to forty-eight hrs.

Exactly what is Toxic Alcohol and How is it Used?

Toxic alcohol is a harmful chemical often used in antifreeze, windshield wiper fluid, and thinner. It is not meant for ingestion.

While it is generated during the creation of beverages, licensed producers lower it to minimal, harmless amounts for human consumption through the purification method.

But in various destinations, it is surreptitiously added into beverages to save money, and as it is flavorless and odourless, it is impossible to identify.

Official Advice for Travelers

Government official Hamish Falconer stated that each tourist should recognize the indicators of toxic alcohol toxicity.

"When you are having drinks overseas, opt for reputable establishments and steer clear of homemade alcohol or complimentary drinks," the minister advised.

"Should anything seems unusual, like a fatigue that's much more severe than normal or blurred eyesight – get medical help fast."

The entire register of countries noted as carrying a threat of methanol contamination currently features: 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 Facts About Industrial Alcohol Poisoning

• Toxic alcohol is a harmful compound not intended for human consumption.
• As little as minimal doses can result in blindness or loss of life.
• Symptoms might consist of unusual fatigue, vomiting, belly ache, lightheadedness, and sight issues.
• Travelers are advised to exclusively have commercially bottled beverages from reputable sources.
• In case you think industrial alcohol contamination, contact a doctor right away.