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British government has included 11 new destinations to its official alert register concerning the dangers of toxic alcohol poisoning from contaminated beverages.

This revised travel guidance now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following what officials describe as "an international surge in the incidence of documented incidents" of methanol poisoning.

Only a few weeks ago, authorities had previously added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing roster, following multiple notable cases including the tragic loss of half a dozen visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being advised that even small amounts of industrial alcohol can cause permanent eye damage or death within twelve to forty-eight hours.

What is Methanol and How is it Employed?

Toxic alcohol is a poisonous chemical typically utilized in antifreeze, car cleaning liquid, and thinner. It is not designed for drinking.

Although it is inherently formed during the production of spirits, licensed producers bring it down to minimal, harmless amounts for human consumption through the distillation process.

Yet in various destinations, it is clandestinely blended into spirits to cut costs, and since it is tasteless and smell-free, it is extremely challenging to notice.

Authorities' Advice for Tourists

Authorities representative the minister said that all travellers should know the indicators of industrial alcohol poisoning.

"If you're drinking spirits in foreign countries, opt for trusted places and refrain from unlicensed drinks or unspecified beverages," Falconer said.

"Should anything seems unusual, like a fatigue that's far more intense than typical or blurred eyesight – contact a doctor fast."

The full roster of destinations noted as carrying a threat of methanol 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.

Important Facts Concerning Industrial Alcohol Contamination

• Industrial alcohol is a poisonous chemical not designed for ingestion.
• Even tiny quantities can cause permanent eye damage or death.
• Indicators may include severe hangover, vomiting, abdominal pain, vertigo, and sight issues.
• Travelers are urged to only drink properly packaged beverages from licensed vendors.
• If you suspect methanol poisoning, contact a doctor without delay.