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The UK Foreign Office has included an additional eleven more destinations to its travel alert roster about the risks of toxic alcohol poisoning 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 worldwide rise in the incidence of reported cases" of industrial alcohol contamination.

Just a few weeks ago, the government had already added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing register, in response to several high-profile events such as the deadly death of six visitors in Laos in 2024.

Tourists are being warned that as little as small amounts of toxic alcohol can result in vision loss or fatality within 12 to 48 hours.

Exactly what is Toxic Alcohol and In what way is it Used?

Industrial alcohol is a harmful substance typically utilized in coolant, windshield wiper fluid, and paint solvent. It is not meant for ingestion.

While it is naturally produced during the creation of beverages, commercial firms reduce it to low, safe levels for drinking through the purification method.

However in certain nations, it is surreptitiously added into beverages to reduce expenses, and because it is tasteless and odourless, it is impossible to identify.

Authorities' Guidance for Travellers

Government minister Hamish Falconer stated that all travellers should recognize the indicators of methanol contamination.

"While consuming alcohol abroad, stick to well-known venues and refrain from local brews or unspecified beverages," Falconer said.

"If something seems unusual, like a hangover that's much more severe than normal or vision problems – seek medical attention fast."

The entire register of countries listed as posing a risk of methanol contamination 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.

Important Facts Regarding Industrial Alcohol Contamination

• Toxic alcohol is a toxic chemical not designed for human consumption.
• Even small amounts can result in blindness or fatality.
• Symptoms might consist of intense headache, vomiting, stomach cramps, dizziness, and blurred eyesight.
• Travelers are advised to exclusively have properly packaged drinks from trusted establishments.
• If you suspect toxic alcohol contamination, contact a doctor without delay.