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Deadly Methanol Lurks in Tourist Drinks!
25 Sep
Summary
- Methanol is illegally mixed into 'real' alcoholic drinks.
- Seek medical help if vision is blurry or sensitivity increases.
- Avoid homemade drinks and buy only from licensed venues.

Travelers worldwide are cautioned about the serious risk of methanol poisoning, particularly in regions where illicit alcohol production is prevalent. Methanol, a toxic substance, is sometimes illegally introduced into spirits and cocktails, posing a grave threat to unsuspecting tourists.
Symptoms of methanol poisoning can manifest rapidly, including impaired judgment, loss of balance, and drowsiness. A particularly alarming indicator is visual disturbance, ranging from blurry vision and light sensitivity to potential blindness. Travelers experiencing such symptoms must seek immediate medical attention.
To mitigate these risks, travelers are strongly urged to purchase alcoholic beverages exclusively from licensed venues, such as bars and hotels. It is also advisable to avoid homemade drinks and meticulously check bottle seals for integrity. Additionally, tourists should scrutinize labels for any signs of poor printing quality or spelling mistakes, which can signal an adulterated product.