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British government has placed 11 more nations to its travel advisory roster regarding the threats of methanol toxicity from tainted spirits.

This expanded travel guidance features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda due to reports of "an international surge in the incidence of documented incidents" of methanol toxicity.

Only last month, the government had already placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current register, in response to multiple serious events like the fatal loss of six visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being warned that as little as minimal doses of methanol can cause permanent eye damage or loss of life within twelve to forty-eight hrs.

Exactly what is Methanol and In what way is it Used?

Toxic alcohol is a poisonous substance often used in coolant, windscreen washer fluid, and paint solvent. This substance is not designed for drinking.

Although it is inherently formed during the manufacture of beverages, reputable manufacturers bring it down to minimal, harmless amounts for drinking through the distillation process.

But in some countries, it is illegally mixed into alcoholic drinks to reduce expenses, and because it is tasteless and odourless, it is extremely challenging to detect.

Official Guidance for Tourists

Government representative Hamish Falconer stated that all travellers should be aware of the symptoms of methanol poisoning.

"While consuming alcohol in foreign countries, stick to reputable establishments and avoid unlicensed drinks or complimentary drinks," the minister said.

"Should anything feels off, for example a headache that's much more severe than usual or sight issues – seek medical attention right away."

The complete roster of countries noted as posing a risk 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.

Key Information Concerning Methanol Poisoning

• Industrial alcohol is a toxic substance not intended for drinking.
• As little as minimal doses can lead to blindness or fatality.
• Signs might consist of intense headache, nausea, belly ache, lightheadedness, and sight issues.
• Travellers are recommended to only drink properly packaged alcohol from reputable sources.
• If you suspect toxic alcohol contamination, seek medical help right away.