🔗 Share this article

The UK authorities has added eleven new destinations to its travel alert roster concerning the risks of industrial alcohol toxicity from adulterated alcoholic drinks.

This revised warning features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following evidence showing "a worldwide rise in the frequency of documented incidents" of toxic alcohol contamination.

Only last month, authorities had previously included Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the standing roster, in response to several high-profile events like the deadly demise of 6 travelers in Laos in 2024.

Travellers are being advised that even minimal doses of toxic alcohol can cause vision loss or loss of life within 12 to 48 hrs.

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

Industrial alcohol is a toxic substance commonly utilized in coolant, windscreen washer fluid, and thinner. This chemical is not intended for drinking.

While it is inherently formed during the manufacture of spirits, reputable manufacturers reduce it to non-dangerous concentrations for human consumption through the purification method.

Yet in some countries, it is clandestinely blended into alcoholic drinks to reduce expenses, and since it is flavorless and odourless, it is very difficult to identify.

Official Advice for Tourists

Authorities representative a senior official said that every traveler should be aware of the symptoms of toxic alcohol contamination.

"When you are having drinks in foreign countries, choose reputable establishments and refrain from local brews or free shots," the official advised.

"If something feels off, for example a headache that's much more severe than usual or vision problems – seek medical attention fast."

The complete register of destinations noted as posing a risk of toxic alcohol 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 Details Regarding Methanol Contamination

• Industrial alcohol is a harmful compound not designed for drinking.
• Even minimal doses can cause blindness or loss of life.
• Indicators might consist of severe hangover, vomiting, belly ache, vertigo, and sight issues.
• Tourists are urged to only drink properly packaged beverages from trusted establishments.
• In case you think methanol poisoning, get medical attention immediately.