🔗 Share this article

The UK Foreign Office has placed eleven further countries to its public advisory list concerning the threats of toxic alcohol toxicity from tainted spirits.

The updated travel guidance now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda after reports of "an international surge in the frequency of reported cases" of industrial alcohol contamination.

Just last month, authorities had earlier included Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current roster, following multiple high-profile cases like the fatal loss of half a dozen travelers in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being advised that as little as small amounts of methanol can lead to permanent eye damage or death within 12–48 hrs.

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

Methanol is a harmful chemical commonly utilized in coolant, windshield wiper fluid, and paint solvent. This substance is not designed for drinking.

While it is inherently formed during the creation of spirits, commercial firms lower it to low, safe levels for drinking through the distillation process.

Yet in some countries, it is surreptitiously added into beverages to reduce expenses, and since it is tasteless and smell-free, it is impossible to notice.

Official Advice for Travelers

Foreign Office minister a senior official emphasized that all travellers should be aware of the symptoms of toxic alcohol contamination.

"When you are drinking spirits overseas, stick to reputable establishments and refrain from homemade alcohol or complimentary drinks," the official said.

"If something seems unusual, such as a headache that's way worse than typical or blurred eyesight – contact a doctor immediately."

The complete list of countries identified as carrying a threat of toxic alcohol toxicity 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 Concerning Industrial Alcohol Contamination

• Toxic alcohol is a toxic substance not designed for drinking.
• As little as tiny quantities can cause blindness or death.
• Symptoms can involve intense headache, nausea, belly ache, dizziness, and sight issues.
• Travelers are urged to strictly consume commercially bottled alcohol from licensed vendors.
• In case you think methanol contamination, seek medical help without delay.