The Foreign Office has added eight countries to a warning list of nations where Brits could risk potentially lethal methanol poisoning from fake or tainted alcoholic drinks. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) announced the eight new nations today (Tuesday), taking the total number of countries on the danger list to 16.
New methanol warnings have been issued for travelers heading to countries in South and North America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Africa. The latest additions to the list are Ecuador, Kenya, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Uganda, and Russia.
The FCDO previously only included guidance on methanol poisoning in places where British nationals have been affected. These countries are: Cambodia, Indonesia, Turkey, Costa Rica, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Fiji. Last year, six tourists died after unknowingly drinking methanol-laced beverages in Laos, including 28-year-old British traveler Simone White.
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 travelers realize 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. I encourage all travelers 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 journey. advice.”
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 12-48 hours of consumption. The toxic substance is tasteless and odorless, making it impossible for travelers 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.
Travelers are also advised to watch out for warning signs of methanol poisoning, which include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and confusion. Although in the early stages, methanol poisoning can resemble alcohol poisoning, distinctive symptoms—such as vision issues—can develop between 12 and 48 hours after consumption. Anyone showing any signs of methanol poisoning should seek urgent medical attention immediately.