Methanol Poisoning Incident in Laos Claims Lives, Leaves Tourists Critically Ill

A devastating incident of methanol poisoning in the tourist town of Vang Vieng, Laos, has resulted in multiple deaths and left several tourists critically ill. Two Australian teenagers, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both 19, were among those affected after consuming alcohol suspected to be tainted with methanol at a local bar last Tuesday.

Bianca Jones has tragically passed away in a Thai hospital, while her friend Holly Bowles remains in critical condition and is currently on life support at Bangkok Hospital.

In addition to the Australian victims, at least two Danish women in their 20s and a US citizen have also died from suspected methanol poisoning. The incident has left up to 14 people violently ill, highlighting the severe risks associated with consuming tainted alcohol in the region.

Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is a highly toxic substance that can be lethal even in small doses. When ingested, it is converted into formaldehyde and formic acid by the body’s enzymes, leading to severe toxicity. Symptoms of methanol poisoning include vomiting, abdominal pain, nausea, loss of coordination, and decreased vision, which can progress to severe metabolic acidosis, unconsciousness, and even coma.

The incident has prompted authorities and travel advisories to warn tourists about the potential risks of spirit-based drinks, particularly in Southeast Asian tourist hotspots. The Australian government’s travel advice service, Smartraveller, and the Commonwealth Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) have advised travellers to avoid homemade drinks and to only consume beverages at reputable venues.

Police in Laos are investigating the incident, which is believed to be linked to a bar that had previous connections to the Asian mafia. The US State Department and other international authorities are providing consular assistance to the affected families).