The Foreign Office has issued a serious alert to those planning to go abroad
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a stark warning to Brits planning to jet off abroad, urging them to “seek urgent medical help” if they experience any of several symptoms. The FCDO plays a crucial role in providing up-to-the-minute information to ensure the safety of UK nationals travelling overseas.
A new alert posted on X, previously Twitter, on Monday reads: “It only takes a small amount of methanol to rapidly cause serious illness or death. “Symptoms like dizziness, vertigo and amnesia can develop 12-24 hours after ingestion. If you suspect methanol poisoning, seek urgent medical help.”
On its official website, the FCDO further explains that while it’s impossible to completely eliminate all risks of methanol poisoning when drinking abroad, “travellers can take steps to minimise the risk”. Holidaymakers are advised to stick to sealed or bottled drinks from licenced venues, steer clear of street-side or homemade booze, and exercise caution when consuming pre-mixed, spirit-based beverages, such as cocktails, shots or drinks served in “buckets” or jugs.
It’s also vital to be aware of the symptoms of methanol poisoning, which can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness and confusion, followed by blurred vision, blindness or difficulty breathing within 12-48 hours. Seek immediate medical attention if you or a travel companion show signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued advice on methanol poisoning for a number of countries including Brazil, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Laos, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, and Vietnam.
However, before travelling to any country it’s important to check the latest FCDO advice for your destination.