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The UK government has placed an additional eleven new countries to its official advisory register about the dangers of industrial alcohol toxicity from tainted spirits.

The updated travel guidance covers Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following evidence showing "a global increase in the frequency of documented incidents" of toxic alcohol contamination.

Only a few weeks ago, authorities had already added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current register, after several notable cases such as the fatal demise of 6 visitors in Laos in 2024.

Tourists are being warned that even minimal doses of methanol can cause vision loss or fatality within twelve to forty-eight hours.

What is Methanol and In what way is it Employed?

Toxic alcohol is a poisonous industrial alcohol commonly utilized in coolant, windscreen washer fluid, and paint thinner. It is not designed for ingestion.

While it is inherently formed during the manufacture of beverages, licensed producers reduce it to minimal, harmless amounts for drinking through the purification method.

But in certain nations, it is surreptitiously added into alcoholic drinks to reduce expenses, and because it is tasteless and smell-free, it is extremely challenging to identify.

Government Advice for Tourists

Foreign Office official a senior official emphasized that every traveler should know the signs of methanol contamination.

"If you're consuming alcohol abroad, stick to reputable establishments and steer clear of local brews or unspecified beverages," the official said.

"If something appears suspicious, for example a headache that's far more intense than usual or vision problems – get medical help right away."

The full register of countries identified 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.

Key Details Concerning Methanol Poisoning

• Methanol is a toxic substance not meant for human consumption.
• Even minimal doses can lead to permanent eye damage or death.
• Symptoms can involve intense headache, sickness, abdominal pain, lightheadedness, and vision problems.
• Tourists are recommended to strictly consume properly packaged alcohol from licensed vendors.
• If you suspect methanol toxicity, get medical attention immediately.