The Foreign Office has issued fresh warnings about the dangers of methanol poisoning across 11 countries worldwide. Even tiny quantities of methanol can prove toxic.
This industrial alcohol, produced through wood distillation, features in numerous commercial products including antifreeze, fuel and paint thinners.
However, in certain regions across the globe, methanol products are illegally blended with genuine alcohol in spirit-based beverages and cocktails. The Foreign Office reports a surge in serious illness cases linked to methanol-contaminated alcoholic drinks at popular holiday destinations worldwide.
A campaign is now underway to help travellers reduce their risk and identify methanol poisoning symptoms. The revised travel advice now includes Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea and Rwanda, following “a global increase in the number of reported cases” of methanol poisoning.
Identifying methanol poisoning proves challenging initially, as early symptoms mirror those of regular alcohol consumption. The Foreign Office warns travellers to watch for vomiting, impaired judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Within 48 hours of consumption, additional symptoms may emerge including abdominal pain, vertigo, hyperventilation, breathlessness, blurred vision and/or blindness, coma and convulsions. Official guidance states: “If you or someone you are travelling with has any of these symptoms, seek urgent medical attention.”
Problems with vision are another warning sign, as methanol poisoning can lead to blurred vision, sensitivity to bright lights, and in severe cases total blindness.
Seeking immediate medical help could prove lifesaving or prevent lasting damage.
The Foreign Office states: “It is not possible to completely remove the risks from methanol poisoning when drinking alcohol, but you can take steps to reduce the risk.”
Measures you can take to minimise the danger include steering clear of homemade or street-sold alcohol, patronising licensed establishments only, inspecting bottles carefully and exercising caution with complimentary drinks.
Should you suspect methanol poisoning, whether in yourself or a companion, the Foreign Office advises swift action is essential.
You should secure insurance suited to your travel requirements. Travelling without adequate cover can prove extremely costly should problems arise whilst you are overseas.
If you opt for a basic policy offering insufficient medical protection, you risk facing a substantial bill should an unforeseen health matter occur during your holiday.
Full list of countries on the list:
Brazil
Bangladesh
Cambodia
Costa Rica
Ecuador
Fiji
India
Indonesia
Iran
Jordan
Kenya
Laos
Libya
Malawi
Malaysia
Mexico
Morocco
Nepal
Nigeria
Papua New Guinea
Peru
Rwanda
Thailand
Turkey
Uganda
Vietnam.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
