The Foreign Office (FCDO) has expanded poisoning warnings to cover 11 new countries visited by Brits where incidents of methanol poisoning have been recorded. Methanol is an industrial alcohol that can be found in antifreeze and paint thinners.
In some countries overseas it is illegally mixed with spirit-based drinks and cocktails to cut costs. Even small amounts of methanol can cause blindness or death within 12 to 48 hours of consumption. The toxic substance is tasteless and odourless, making it impossible for travellers to detect. British nationals are advised to purchase sealed drinks from licensed establishments, avoid homemade alcohol and be particularly cautious of pre-mixed spirits, cocktails and drinks served in buckets or jugs. Travellers are also advised to watch out for warning signs of methanol poisoning, which include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and confusion. Though in the early stages methanol poisoning can resemble alcohol poisoning, distinctive symptoms of methanol poisoning – such as vision issues – can develop between 12-48 hours after consumption. Anyone showing any signs of methanol poisoning should seek urgent medical attention immediately.
The new countries on the Foreign Office’s list are Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, and Rwanda.
Already on the list are Brazil, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Fiji, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, Laos, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, and Vietnam.
Minister responsible for Consular and Crisis, Hamish Falconer said: “Methanol poisoning can kill – it can be difficult to detect when drinking and early symptoms mirror ordinary alcohol poisoning.
“By the time travellers realise the danger, it can be too late.That’s why we’re working hard to raise awareness of the warning signs and urging anyone who suspects methanol poisoning to seek immediate medical attention.
“If you’re drinking spirits overseas, stick to trusted places and avoid homemade alcohol or free shots. If something feels off, like a hangover that’s way worse than normal or vision problems – get medical help fast.
“I encourage all travellers to check our travel advice and Travel Aware pages before they go on holiday. No family should endure what the campaigners’ families have suffered.
“Their determination to prevent others facing the same tragedy has been instrumental in driving forward these vital updates to our travel advice.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
