The Foreign Office has expanded its methanol poisoning warnings to eight additional countries, bringing the total to 16 destinations where British travelers face risks from contaminated alcohol.
The Foreign Office issued the update in October, prompting travel experts to release fresh safety guidance as concerns grow over illegal methanol adulteration in bars and restaurants.
Methanol, a highly toxic liquid, poses severe dangers to drinkers. Criminals illegally add methanol to alcoholic beverages to reduce costs. Manufacturers commonly use the substance in antifreeze and paint products.
The substance can cause severe harm or death within 48 hours, even in small quantities. Doctors Without Borders reports thousands of annual poisoning cases worldwide, with fatality rates ranging from 20 to 40 percent.
The newly added countries are Ecuador, Kenya, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Uganda, and Russia. Previously, the Foreign Office limited its methanol guidance to destinations where methanol had already affected British nationals, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Turkey, Costa Rica, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Fiji.
Expert advice
Alicia Hempsted, travel insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, warned of the danger signs. "Methanol is a type of alcohol often used in antifreeze and windshield washer fluid and is highly toxic if consumed," she said. "Early symptoms can include vomiting and drowsiness but as poisoning worsens, it may lead to abdominal pain, vertigo, difficulty breathing, blurred vision and even blindness."
She urged travelers to take critical precautions. They should drink only from sealed bottles, never leave beverages unattended, and purchase travel insurance.
"If you experience any of the symptoms of methanol poisoning, or suspect you may have consumed it, you must seek immediate medical attention," Hempsted said. "Treatments can include an antidote or dialysis, depending on how advanced the poisoning is."
Hamish Falconer, minister responsible for Consular and Crisis, told the Mirror in October that early detection remains difficult. "Methanol poisoning can kill - it can be difficult to detect when drinking and early symptoms mirror ordinary alcohol poisoning," he said. "By the time travellers realise the danger, it can be too late."
He encouraged all travelers to check Foreign Office travel advice before their holidays.
Note: AI created this article.
