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British government has added 11 new nations to its public alert register regarding the threats of methanol toxicity from contaminated spirits.

The expanded travel guidance features Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda following reports of "a worldwide rise in the frequency of documented incidents" of methanol contamination.

Just recently, authorities had previously added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to the existing register, after multiple notable events including the tragic demise of 6 visitors in Laos in 2024.

Tourists are being cautions that even tiny quantities of toxic alcohol can cause vision loss or loss of life within 12 to 48 hours.

Exactly what is Toxic Alcohol and How is it Employed?

Industrial alcohol is a toxic chemical often utilized in coolant, car cleaning liquid, and paint thinner. This substance is not designed for human consumption.

While it is inherently formed during the creation of beverages, commercial firms bring it down to low, safe levels for ingestion through the distillation process.

However in some countries, it is clandestinely blended into spirits to cut costs, and since it is flavorless and scentless, it is very difficult to detect.

Authorities' Advice for Travelers

Authorities minister a senior official emphasized that all travellers should know the signs of industrial alcohol contamination.

"While consuming alcohol in foreign countries, stick to reputable establishments and avoid local brews or unspecified beverages," the official warned.

"Should anything appears suspicious, such as a fatigue that's far more intense than normal or blurred eyesight – get medical help fast."

The complete roster of destinations identified as posing a risk of toxic alcohol toxicity 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.

Key Information Regarding Industrial Alcohol Toxicity

• Toxic alcohol is a harmful chemical not designed for ingestion.
• As little as tiny quantities can lead to permanent eye damage or loss of life.
• Symptoms can involve intense headache, vomiting, stomach cramps, vertigo, and vision problems.
• Tourists are urged to exclusively have properly packaged alcohol from reputable sources.
• In case you think toxic alcohol contamination, contact a doctor immediately.