A fun-filled trip abroad can go badly wrong, travellers have been warned
The UK Foreign Office has issued fresh warnings to Brit holidaymakers abroad who might fancy a tipple. Methanol poisoning thrust itself into the spotlight last year following the deaths of six tourists in Laos.
Now holidaymakers are being urged to remain vigilant. Posting on X, the Foreign Office stressed the importance of recognising methanol poisoning symptoms, stating: “It only takes a small amount of methanol to cause serious illness. Symptoms, such as vision problems and abdominal pain, can take 12-24 hours to develop. If you suspect methanol poisoning, seek urgent medical help.”
Methanol is a dangerous substance that can contaminate alcoholic drinks during production, typically through illegal or backyard brewing operations. Yet the compound has no taste or smell, meaning unless people recognise the warning signs, they might not seek assistance until it’s too late – as this contamination can prove deadly.
Some of the initial symptoms, according to the government’s Travel Aware initiative, include feeling bewildered, light-headed, utterly exhausted and potentially vomiting. During this phase, methanol contamination can mirror standard intoxication, though these effects will strike more severely and rapidly than normal alcohol consumption.
Between 12 to 48 hours following methanol consumption, additional symptoms will emerge that may make the situation more apparent. These can encompass severe headaches, sickness, fits or even falling into unconsciousness.
Vision problems may also begin to emerge at this stage, potentially leading to blurred vision, trouble with bright lights or even total loss of sight. Experiencing tunnel vision or witnessing what looks like a snowfield – similar to static on an old television – are also serious warning signs.
The guidance states: “Basically, if you’re feeling very drunk, out of proportion to how much you’ve had to drink, get help ASAP. If you or anyone you’re with starts to show any of these signs, call or visit the local hospital immediately. It could save your life or prevent serious complications.”
Timing is crucial when treating methanol poisoning. Upon reaching hospital, medics will administer an antidote such as ethanol or fomepizole.
This medication can prevent the methanol from becoming poisonous within your system. The treatment might also include dialysis to eliminate the methanol from your body. These interventions work best when given within 10 to 30 hours of consuming methanol. More information about methanol poisoning can be found on the Gov.uk website.
There are methods to minimise your chances of becoming a victim of methanol poisoning initially. The Foreign Office recommends continuously monitoring your drink whilst overseas and declining any drinks offered by unknown people. Choosing trustworthy establishments and selecting well-known alcohol brands can also reduce the likelihood of methanol poisoning.
The department also warned: “Alcohol can hit harder abroad because measures are sometimes larger, and dehydration from heat can make you feel worse. Stay in control.”