The Foreign Office has escalated its travel safety warnings, adding eight new countries to its list of destinations where British nationals face a risk of methanol poisoning from illegally adulterated alcoholic drinks.
What is Methanol and Why is it So Dangerous?
Commonly known as wood alcohol, methanol is a clear, flammable liquid typically found in industrial products like antifreeze and paint. However, criminal elements sometimes use it to illegally dilute cocktails and spirits in bars to increase profit margins.
The consequences of consuming even a small amount are severe. Alicia Hempsted, a travel insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket, explained the grave risks: "Methanol is highly toxic if consumed. 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."
Medical charities report that thousands suffer from methanol poisoning globally each year, with fatality rates estimated between 20% and 40%. The damage can be irreversible and fatal within just 48 hours of consumption.
The Expanded List of At-Risk Countries
In a significant update last October, the Foreign Office added new methanol guidance for eight additional nations. The newly listed countries are:
- Ecuador
- Kenya
- Japan
- Mexico
- Nigeria
- Peru
- Uganda
- Russia
This expands the existing list, which already included popular tourist destinations such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Turkey, Costa Rica, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Fiji, following cases where British nationals were affected.
Protecting Yourself While Travelling Abroad
In response to the growing threat, experts are urging holidaymakers to adopt crucial safety measures. Ms Hempsted advises that the 'safest approach' is to drink only from sealed, branded bottles and to never leave a beverage unattended.
She also strongly emphasised the importance of comprehensive travel insurance. "Unfortunately, even when you take every possible precaution, emergencies can still happen when you’re abroad. Travel insurance can provide cover for emergency medical expenses and hospital treatments," she stated, highlighting that it offers vital financial protection.
Consular minister Hamish Falconer reinforced the urgency, noting that "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."
The critical advice for anyone experiencing symptoms or suspecting consumption is to seek immediate medical attention. Treatments can involve an antidote or dialysis, depending on the severity and progression of the poisoning.
