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British Foreign Office has placed eleven more countries to its public warning roster concerning the threats of methanol poisoning from tainted alcoholic drinks.

This updated warning covers Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following reports of "a worldwide rise in the frequency of reported cases" of methanol poisoning.

Only a few weeks ago, authorities had earlier added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current register, following multiple notable events like the deadly death of 6 tourists in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being advised that as little as minimal doses of methanol can lead to vision loss or loss of life within 12–48 hrs.

What is Methanol and In what way is it Used?

Methanol is a poisonous industrial alcohol commonly used in coolant, windscreen washer fluid, and paint solvent. This chemical is not meant for drinking.

While it is inherently formed during the production of beverages, licensed producers reduce it to minimal, harmless amounts for human consumption through the refining procedure.

Yet in various destinations, it is clandestinely blended into spirits to reduce expenses, and because it is tasteless and scentless, it is impossible to identify.

Official Recommendations for Tourists

Authorities representative the minister emphasized that all travellers should recognize the signs of industrial alcohol poisoning.

"If you're consuming alcohol in foreign countries, choose well-known venues and avoid local brews or unspecified beverages," Falconer said.

"If something feels off, such as a hangover that's far more intense than normal or vision problems – seek medical attention immediately."

The full register of destinations identified as carrying a threat of methanol 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.

Important Facts About Methanol Toxicity

• Industrial alcohol is a poisonous chemical not intended for ingestion.
• Even small amounts can lead to permanent eye damage or loss of life.
• Signs can involve intense headache, nausea, belly ache, vertigo, and blurred eyesight.
• Travelers are recommended to only drink properly packaged alcohol from reputable sources.
• Should you believe industrial alcohol poisoning, get medical attention immediately.