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The UK Foreign Office has included 11 new nations to its official advisory list about the dangers of industrial alcohol poisoning from tainted spirits.

This updated advisory covers Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following reports of "an international surge in the number of reported cases" of toxic alcohol contamination.

Just a few weeks ago, officials had already placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing list, after several serious incidents including the tragic loss of six travelers in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being advised that even small amounts of toxic alcohol can lead to blindness or death within twelve to forty-eight hours.

What is Methanol and In what way is it Utilized?

Toxic alcohol is a toxic industrial alcohol often employed in antifreeze, windscreen washer fluid, and paint thinner. This chemical is not designed for human consumption.

While it is naturally produced during the creation of alcoholic drinks, licensed producers reduce it to low, safe levels for drinking through the distillation process.

But in various destinations, it is clandestinely blended into alcoholic drinks to save money, and because it is flavorless and odourless, it is impossible to identify.

Authorities' Advice for Travelers

Authorities official the minister said that all travellers should know the signs of industrial alcohol contamination.

"If you're drinking spirits abroad, stick to trusted places and refrain from homemade alcohol or unspecified beverages," Falconer said.

"Should anything feels off, such as a fatigue that's way worse than usual or vision problems – seek medical attention right away."

The full register of nations identified as presenting a danger 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 Details About Toxic Alcohol Contamination

• Methanol is a poisonous substance not designed for ingestion.
• Even minimal doses can cause permanent eye damage or death.
• Symptoms might consist of unusual fatigue, vomiting, abdominal pain, lightheadedness, and blurred eyesight.
• Tourists are advised to strictly consume sealed drinks from licensed vendors.
• Should you believe industrial alcohol toxicity, get medical attention right away.