Alcohol Poisoning in Klang Valley, Malaysia

At least 21 people have died with many more hospitalized following consumptions of alcohol contaminated with methanol. Several types of alcohol were identified as contaminated. They included Grand Royal and Mandalay whisky and King Fisher beer that were sold by various commercial stores in the Klang Valley, which includes Kuala Lumpur and some areas of the state of Selangor.

Advice

When alcoholic beverages are improperly distilled, they often include methanol which is a highly toxic poison. Methanol poisoning includes a decreased level of consciousness, poor coordination, vomiting, abdominal pain, and a specific smell on the breath. Decreased vision may start as early as twelve hours after exposure. Long-term outcomes may include blindness and kidney failure. Toxicity and death may occur even after drinking a small amount.

Travellers should be cautious and only consume alcoholic beverages produced by known commercial companies and purchased from reputable commercial outlets.