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British Foreign Office has placed 11 more nations to its public alert roster regarding the threats of toxic alcohol poisoning from contaminated spirits.

This expanded travel guidance features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda due to what officials describe as "a worldwide rise in the frequency of documented incidents" of toxic alcohol poisoning.

Just recently, officials had previously added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current roster, following multiple notable events including the tragic loss of 6 travelers in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being cautions that as little as minimal doses of toxic alcohol can lead to blindness or death within twelve to forty-eight hours.

Exactly what is Methanol and How is it Utilized?

Toxic alcohol is a toxic substance commonly used in antifreeze, car cleaning liquid, and paint solvent. This chemical is not intended for human consumption.

While it is inherently formed during the creation of beverages, commercial firms lower it to low, safe levels for human consumption through the refining procedure.

But in some countries, it is illegally mixed into alcoholic drinks to reduce expenses, and as it is tasteless and scentless, it is impossible to identify.

Authorities' Advice for Travellers

Foreign Office official a senior official said that every traveler should be aware of the indicators of industrial alcohol poisoning.

"If you're having drinks abroad, stick to well-known venues and refrain from unlicensed drinks or free shots," Falconer warned.

"If something feels off, like a headache that's much more severe than normal or vision problems – seek medical attention fast."

The full roster of countries listed 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 About Industrial Alcohol Poisoning

• Industrial alcohol is a toxic chemical not designed for ingestion.
• As little as tiny quantities can cause blindness or fatality.
• Indicators can involve severe hangover, nausea, stomach cramps, lightheadedness, and blurred eyesight.
• Travelers are urged to only drink commercially bottled drinks from reputable sources.
• If you suspect methanol toxicity, seek medical help immediately.