Particle.news
Download on the App Store

UK Foreign Office Expands Methanol-Poisoning Travel Warnings to Eight More Countries

Officials cite a rise in global cases, prompting a new awareness drive.

Overview

  • The eight additions are Ecuador, Kenya, Japan, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Uganda and Russia, bringing the total number of destinations with guidance to 16.
  • The update follows reports of serious illness and deaths linked to tainted alcoholic drinks in popular travel hotspots.
  • The FCDO has refreshed its Travel Aware materials and launched a 'Know the Signs of Methanol Poisoning' campaign.
  • Travellers are urged to buy sealed drinks from licensed venues, avoid homemade alcohol and be cautious of pre‑mixed spirit-based drinks.
  • Early signs can resemble ordinary intoxication before vision problems appear within 12–48 hours, and anyone with symptoms is advised to seek urgent medical care.