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British authorities has added an additional eleven further nations to its official warning list regarding the dangers of methanol contamination from tainted beverages.

This updated advisory features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda after evidence showing "an international surge in the number of reported cases" of toxic alcohol poisoning.

Just last month, authorities had earlier placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing list, after multiple high-profile incidents including the fatal death of half a dozen visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being advised that even minimal doses of methanol can cause permanent eye damage or death within twelve to forty-eight hrs.

What is Toxic Alcohol and In what way is it Utilized?

Industrial alcohol is a harmful substance commonly used in coolant, windshield wiper fluid, and paint thinner. It is not intended for human consumption.

Although it is inherently formed during the manufacture of beverages, commercial firms lower it to minimal, harmless amounts for drinking through the purification method.

Yet in certain nations, it is illegally mixed into alcoholic drinks to save money, and since it is flavorless and smell-free, it is impossible to detect.

Government Guidance for Travellers

Government official a senior official emphasized that all travellers should know the symptoms of industrial alcohol poisoning.

"If you're consuming alcohol overseas, choose well-known venues and steer clear of homemade alcohol or unspecified beverages," Falconer advised.

"In case something appears suspicious, such as a fatigue that's far more intense than normal or sight issues – contact a doctor fast."

The full list of countries listed as posing a risk of methanol toxicity 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 Concerning Methanol Poisoning

• Methanol is a toxic compound not intended for ingestion.
• Even minimal doses can lead to blindness or fatality.
• Symptoms might consist of unusual fatigue, sickness, stomach cramps, lightheadedness, and sight issues.
• Travellers are advised to exclusively have properly packaged beverages from reputable sources.
• If you suspect methanol toxicity, contact a doctor immediately.