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British Foreign Office has added an additional eleven more countries to its travel warning list about the threats of methanol poisoning from tainted spirits.

The updated travel guidance now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following reports of "a global increase in the number of reported cases" of methanol contamination.

Just last month, authorities had already added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing roster, in response to a number of notable cases like the fatal demise of six tourists in Laos in 2024.

Tourists are being cautions that even tiny quantities of toxic alcohol can cause permanent eye damage or fatality within 12 to 48 hours.

Exactly what is Toxic Alcohol and How is it Used?

Methanol is a toxic substance typically utilized in coolant, car cleaning liquid, and paint solvent. This substance is not meant for ingestion.

While it is inherently formed during the production of beverages, commercial firms lower it to low, safe levels for ingestion through the distillation process.

But in some countries, it is illegally mixed into alcoholic drinks to save money, and as it is flavorless and smell-free, it is impossible to detect.

Authorities' Recommendations for Travelers

Authorities representative a senior official emphasized that every traveler should recognize the indicators of methanol toxicity.

"If you're consuming alcohol overseas, stick to reputable establishments and avoid unlicensed drinks or complimentary drinks," the official warned.

"In case something seems unusual, for example a hangover that's way worse than typical or vision problems – get medical help fast."

The entire list of destinations listed as posing a risk of methanol toxicity 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.

Key Facts About Industrial Alcohol Toxicity

• Industrial alcohol is a toxic compound not meant for human consumption.
• As little as tiny quantities can result in blindness or death.
• Symptoms may include unusual fatigue, nausea, belly ache, dizziness, and sight issues.
• Tourists are advised to exclusively have properly packaged beverages from licensed vendors.
• In case you think industrial alcohol contamination, contact a doctor without delay.