🔗 Share this article UK Broadens Methanol Toxicity Advisory Roster with An additional 11 Countries British Foreign Office has placed 11 more nations to its public advisory register about the risks of industrial alcohol contamination from adulterated beverages. The expanded travel guidance now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following evidence showing "an international surge in the number of documented incidents" of toxic alcohol poisoning. Just recently, officials had earlier added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing roster, following multiple high-profile cases like the tragic demise of 6 travelers in Laos in 2024. Tourists are being warned that as little as minimal doses of toxic alcohol can lead to permanent eye damage or fatality within 12–48 hrs. Exactly what is Toxic Alcohol and How is it Used? Toxic alcohol is a harmful chemical commonly utilized in antifreeze, windscreen washer fluid, and paint solvent. This substance is not intended for ingestion. While it is generated during the manufacture of alcoholic drinks, reputable manufacturers reduce it to non-dangerous concentrations for human consumption through the purification method. However in some countries, it is surreptitiously added into beverages to save money, and since it is tasteless and odourless, it is impossible to notice. Government Recommendations for Tourists Foreign Office representative a senior official said that all travellers should know the indicators of industrial alcohol toxicity. "When you are having drinks overseas, opt for reputable establishments and steer clear of unlicensed drinks or unspecified beverages," Falconer advised. "In case something feels off, for example a fatigue that's far more intense than usual or sight issues – seek medical attention fast." The full list of nations listed as presenting a danger of methanol poisoning 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 Industrial Alcohol Contamination Toxic alcohol is a poisonous compound not designed for ingestion. Even small amounts can result in vision loss or loss of life. Symptoms might consist of severe hangover, sickness, belly ache, vertigo, and blurred eyesight. Travellers are recommended to exclusively have sealed drinks from licensed vendors. If you suspect industrial alcohol toxicity, contact a doctor immediately.