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The UK authorities has added an additional eleven more destinations to its public advisory list regarding the dangers of methanol toxicity from tainted alcoholic drinks.

This updated travel guidance features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following reports of "a global increase in the number of confirmed occurrences" of methanol poisoning.

Just recently, authorities had already placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing register, after several notable events such as the tragic loss of half a dozen tourists in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being advised that as little as small amounts of industrial alcohol can cause blindness or fatality within 12–48 hours.

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

Industrial alcohol is a toxic substance commonly employed in coolant, car cleaning liquid, and paint thinner. It is not meant for drinking.

While it is inherently formed during the creation of spirits, commercial firms reduce it to minimal, harmless amounts for human consumption through the purification method.

However in some countries, it is surreptitiously added into spirits to reduce expenses, and as it is flavorless and smell-free, it is very difficult to notice.

Official Advice for Tourists

Government minister a senior official said that each tourist should recognize the symptoms of methanol contamination.

"While having drinks overseas, opt for trusted places and steer clear of unlicensed drinks or unspecified beverages," the minister warned.

"If something appears suspicious, like a fatigue that's far more intense than normal or vision problems – contact a doctor immediately."

The entire register of destinations listed as presenting a danger 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.

Essential Details Regarding Toxic Alcohol Poisoning

• Methanol is a harmful compound not meant for drinking.
• As little as tiny quantities can result in blindness or death.
• Indicators can involve intense headache, sickness, abdominal pain, dizziness, and blurred eyesight.
• Tourists are urged to strictly consume commercially bottled beverages from reputable sources.
• In case you think methanol contamination, seek medical help without delay.