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The UK authorities has included an additional eleven new countries to its official advisory register about the threats of industrial alcohol toxicity from tainted spirits.

This expanded travel guidance features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following reports of "an international surge in the incidence of confirmed occurrences" of methanol contamination.

Only a few weeks ago, officials had already added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing roster, after a number of serious cases such as the deadly demise of half a dozen visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being cautions that as little as small amounts of industrial alcohol can cause vision loss or loss of life within 12–48 hrs.

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

Industrial alcohol is a harmful industrial alcohol often utilized in antifreeze, windscreen washer fluid, and paint solvent. This substance is not meant for human consumption.

While it is generated during the production of beverages, commercial firms reduce it to minimal, harmless amounts for ingestion through the purification method.

But in certain nations, it is illegally mixed into beverages to save money, and because it is tasteless and scentless, it is very difficult to identify.

Authorities' Advice for Travelers

Authorities official the minister said that every traveler should know the signs of toxic alcohol poisoning.

"While having drinks abroad, stick to reputable establishments and refrain from unlicensed drinks or complimentary drinks," the official warned.

"If something seems unusual, such as a hangover that's far more intense than normal or blurred eyesight – contact a doctor immediately."

The full list of destinations listed as carrying a threat of toxic alcohol poisoning 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.

Essential Information About Industrial Alcohol Poisoning

• Methanol is a poisonous compound not meant for ingestion.
• As little as tiny quantities can lead to vision loss or loss of life.
• Indicators might consist of unusual fatigue, sickness, stomach cramps, dizziness, and vision problems.
• Travellers are advised to exclusively have commercially bottled drinks from trusted establishments.
• In case you think methanol toxicity, get medical attention without delay.