Deaths due to Methanol Consumption in Laos

Two young Australian tourists have been hospitalized in critical condition after consuming alcoholic beverages containing methanol. The exposure occurred in a local bar in the tourist town of Vang Vieng. In addition, two Danish tourists died and 10 more people are ill after consuming the tainted alcoholic beverages.

Advice

The consumption of alcohol contaminated with methanol is a high risk Illegal distillation ofter results in contamination with this poison. Methanol is highly toxic.  Substantial methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death. Travellers should ensure that the alcoholic beverage they are consuming is produced by known commercial companies.