The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its list of countries where tourists should exercise particular caution due to the potential risk of alcohol poisoning.
In the previous version of the list, the following countries were included:
- Cambodia;
- Indonesia;
- Turkey;
- Costa Rica;
- Thailand;
- Vietnam;
- Laos;
- Fiji.
- Ecuador;
- Kenya;
- Japan;
- Mexico;
- Nigeria;
- Peru;
- Uganda;
- Russia.
The agency clarified that alcoholic products containing methanol — a technical alcohol used in products such as antifreeze and solvents — pose a greater danger.
Even a small amount of methanol can lead to blindness or death within 12-48 hours after consumption. This substance has neither taste nor smell, making it difficult for tourists to detect, the Foreign Office noted.
British diplomats urge people to refrain from consuming dubious alcoholic beverages and to be especially cautious when choosing local alcohol in the specified countries.
