ethanol is a toxic type of alcohol used in products like antifreeze, windscreen
cleaner, and paint thinner. It is not safe for drinking.
Some methanol is naturally produced when making alcoholic drinks, but commercial
alcohol makers reduce it to safe levels through distillation.
In some countries, methanol is illegally added to alcoholic drinks to save money.
Since it has no taste or smell, people cannot detect it.
The UK Foreign Office is running a campaign to help people reduce risks and
recognize the symptoms of methanol poisoning.
Foreign Office minister Hamish Falconer advised travelers:
Only drink alcohol from trusted places.
Avoid homemade alcohol or free shots.
If you feel unusual effects, like a very bad hangover or vision problems, seek
medical help immediately.
The full list of countries considered risky for methanol poisoning includes:
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