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British government has placed 11 further destinations to its official alert roster regarding the risks of toxic alcohol poisoning from tainted beverages.

This updated warning covers Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following evidence showing "a global increase in the number of confirmed occurrences" of methanol contamination.

Just a few weeks ago, officials had already placed Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the current list, following multiple serious incidents like the deadly loss of six tourists in Laos in 2024.

Travelers are being cautions that as little as tiny quantities of toxic alcohol can result in blindness or fatality within 12 to 48 hours.

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

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

Although it is generated during the manufacture of alcoholic drinks, licensed producers bring it down to minimal, harmless amounts for drinking through the purification method.

Yet in some countries, it is clandestinely blended into spirits to cut costs, and because it is flavorless and scentless, it is impossible to detect.

Authorities' Advice for Travellers

Authorities minister the minister said that every traveler should recognize the symptoms of industrial alcohol toxicity.

"If you're drinking spirits overseas, choose well-known venues and refrain from unlicensed drinks or complimentary drinks," the minister said.

"If something appears suspicious, like a fatigue that's much more severe than normal or blurred eyesight – seek medical attention immediately."

The full register of nations noted as presenting a danger 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 Methanol Toxicity

• Toxic alcohol is a toxic substance not meant for human consumption.
• As little as tiny quantities can cause vision loss or death.
• Symptoms might consist of intense headache, nausea, stomach cramps, vertigo, and sight issues.
• Travellers are recommended to exclusively have commercially bottled drinks from trusted establishments.
• Should you believe toxic alcohol poisoning, contact a doctor immediately.