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The UK government has added an additional eleven more destinations to its public alert roster concerning the risks of methanol toxicity from contaminated alcoholic drinks.

This updated travel guidance now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following reports of "a worldwide rise in the number of confirmed occurrences" of industrial alcohol poisoning.

Just recently, the government had already added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing list, following multiple high-profile incidents like the deadly death of six visitors in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being cautions that even minimal doses of industrial alcohol can result in blindness or loss of life within 12–48 hours.

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

Methanol is a poisonous substance commonly utilized in antifreeze, windscreen washer fluid, and thinner. This substance is not intended for human consumption.

While it is inherently formed during the manufacture of alcoholic drinks, reputable manufacturers bring it down to non-dangerous concentrations for human consumption through the distillation process.

However in some countries, it is illegally mixed into alcoholic drinks to save money, and because it is flavorless and scentless, it is impossible to notice.

Official Guidance for Tourists

Authorities official the minister emphasized that every traveler should know the signs of toxic alcohol toxicity.

"When you are drinking spirits in foreign countries, choose reputable establishments and refrain from unlicensed drinks or free shots," the official advised.

"If something appears suspicious, such as a fatigue that's far more intense than usual or vision problems – contact a doctor immediately."

The complete list of destinations identified as posing a risk of toxic alcohol 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 Information Regarding Industrial Alcohol Contamination

• Industrial alcohol is a harmful compound not meant for human consumption.
• Even small amounts can result in permanent eye damage or death.
• Signs might consist of unusual fatigue, vomiting, belly ache, lightheadedness, and vision problems.
• Tourists are advised to exclusively have properly packaged alcohol from trusted establishments.
• Should you believe methanol contamination, contact a doctor immediately.