UK Expands Methanol Poisoning Warning to Eight More Countries

The UK Foreign Office has added Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda to its warning list over methanol poisoning risks from counterfeit or tainted alcohol. The alert follows several incidents involving Britons abroad, including fatalities in Laos last year. Methanol, a toxic chemical found in antifreeze, can appear in illegally produced or diluted drinks. Consuming it can cause nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, and even death. Travellers are urged to buy only sealed drinks from licensed venues and avoid homemade or pre-mixed alcohol. The Foreign Office has launched an awareness campaign to help tourists recognise symptoms and reduce risks. Experts emphasise that early medical attention is vital, as methanol poisoning can initially resemble regular alcohol intoxication before causing severe complications.

27-10-2025