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The UK Foreign Office has placed eleven new destinations to its official warning roster about the risks of toxic alcohol toxicity from contaminated spirits.

This revised warning features 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 documented incidents" of methanol contamination.

Just a few weeks ago, authorities had previously placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current roster, in response to several high-profile events including the tragic demise of six visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being advised that as little as small amounts of toxic alcohol can lead to vision loss or death within 12 to 48 hours.

What is Industrial Alcohol and How is it Employed?

Toxic alcohol is a poisonous chemical typically utilized in antifreeze, car cleaning liquid, and thinner. This chemical is not intended for human consumption.

While it is inherently formed during the production of spirits, reputable manufacturers reduce it to minimal, harmless amounts for human consumption through the purification method.

But in various destinations, it is clandestinely blended into alcoholic drinks to cut costs, and because it is tasteless and scentless, it is extremely challenging to detect.

Authorities' Guidance for Travelers

Foreign Office official Hamish Falconer stated that each tourist should recognize the symptoms of methanol poisoning.

"When you are drinking spirits abroad, opt for well-known venues and avoid local brews or complimentary drinks," the official said.

"Should anything appears suspicious, such as a hangover that's way worse than normal or vision problems – contact a doctor immediately."

The full roster of countries noted as carrying a threat of industrial alcohol contamination 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.

Key Details About Toxic Alcohol Poisoning

• Methanol is a toxic compound not designed for ingestion.
• Even small amounts can cause blindness or fatality.
• Signs might consist of intense headache, vomiting, belly ache, lightheadedness, and sight issues.
• Tourists are advised to strictly consume properly packaged drinks from trusted establishments.
• In case you think toxic alcohol toxicity, get medical attention right away.