UK government advisory on methanol
The British government has launched a campaign to alert travellers to the danger of methanol poisoning. Methanol is a highly toxic form of alcohol not intended for human consumption and may be present in counterfeit, illegally produced or contaminated beverages. Even small quantities can be fatal or cause permanent harm.
Recognising the symptoms
Early signs resemble a hangover or mild alcohol intoxication: vomiting, poor judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness. After 12 to 48 hours, symptoms can progress to abdominal pain, vertigo, hyperventilation, breathlessness, blurred vision, tunnel vision, total blindness or a "snowfield" visual effect. In severe cases, convulsions, coma or death may follow, requiring immediate medical attention.
How to reduce the risk
Travellers should avoid unlabeled or unusually cheap drinks, stick to sealed containers of recognised brands for beer, wine or premixed cocktails, and refrain from consuming free shots, street‑sold alcohol or home‑brewed spirits. Choosing licensed bars, restaurants and hotels is strongly recommended.
Countries highlighted by the advisory
The guidance mentions a higher risk in destinations such as Brazil, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Laos, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Papua‑New Guinea, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda and Vietnam. Travellers are urged to exercise caution when consuming alcohol in these locations.