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British Foreign Office has included an additional eleven further destinations to its public alert register concerning the threats of methanol toxicity from adulterated beverages.

The expanded travel guidance features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda after evidence showing "an international surge in the frequency of reported cases" of toxic alcohol toxicity.

Only a few weeks ago, the government had earlier included Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current register, after several serious cases like the fatal loss of six travelers in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being cautions that as little as tiny quantities of toxic alcohol can result in blindness or death within 12 to 48 hours.

What is Methanol and In what way is it Employed?

Methanol is a toxic industrial alcohol often utilized in antifreeze, windscreen washer fluid, and paint solvent. It is not meant for ingestion.

Although it is generated during the production of beverages, reputable manufacturers lower it to low, safe levels for drinking through the distillation process.

Yet in certain nations, it is clandestinely blended into alcoholic drinks to cut costs, and since it is tasteless and scentless, it is very difficult to detect.

Government Advice for Travellers

Government representative the minister said that all travellers should recognize the signs of industrial alcohol contamination.

"While drinking spirits abroad, opt for well-known venues and steer clear of unlicensed drinks or free shots," the minister said.

"Should anything appears suspicious, such as a fatigue that's far more intense than usual or blurred eyesight – contact a doctor immediately."

The full roster of nations noted as carrying a threat of industrial alcohol poisoning 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.

Important Details Concerning Toxic Alcohol Toxicity

• Industrial alcohol is a harmful chemical not intended for drinking.
• Even minimal doses can cause permanent eye damage or fatality.
• Symptoms may include severe hangover, nausea, abdominal pain, vertigo, and vision problems.
• Tourists are advised to strictly consume properly packaged beverages from reputable sources.
• Should you believe toxic alcohol contamination, seek medical help immediately.