What should a person do if they suspect methanol poisoning?

If you suspect you have consumed a contaminated alcoholic drink, particularly while traveling abroad, you should seek medical attention immediately. Recognizing the warning signs early is crucial to preventing potentially fatal consequences.

Home / Health / Methanol Poisoning Emerges as Alarming Public Health Crisis in UK

Methanol Poisoning Emerges as Alarming Public Health Crisis in UK

Q: What is the UK government warning about?

The UK government, through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), has warned of an increase in cases of death and serious illnesses caused by alcoholic beverages contaminated with methanol in several countries, including Mexico.

Q: How can methanol poisoning affect a person?

Methanol poisoning can be extremely dangerous and often fatal. It can cause severe damage to the optic nerve, brain, kidneys, and other vital organs, leading to blindness, coma, respiratory failure, and even death.

13 Nov, 2025

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Summary

UK data suggests methanol poisoning deaths may be underreported
FCDO warns of increased cases in 8 countries, including Mexico
Symptoms can mimic severe hangover, but lead to blindness or death

Methanol Poisoning Emerges as Alarming Public Health Crisis in UK

According to a recent report, the UK is facing a concerning public health crisis as methanol poisoning cases appear to be on the rise, with official data suggesting the problem may be significantly underreported. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has extended warnings to eight additional countries, including popular British holiday destination Mexico, due to an "increase in cases of death and serious illnesses caused by alcoholic beverages contaminated with methanol".

Medical experts are urging the public to be vigilant, as the initial symptoms of methanol poisoning can closely resemble a severe hangover, potentially leading many Brits to brush off the warning signs. However, if left untreated, methanol poisoning can rapidly progress, causing severe damage to the optic nerve, brain, kidneys, and other vital organs, potentially resulting in blindness, coma, respiratory failure, and even death.