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Australia is currently experiencing a flurry of apprehensions following the sad demise of a young Australian backpacker in Laos. The unfortunate incident has turned the spotlight on the rising cases of suspected methanol poisonings across South-East Asia, prompting an array of countries to issue travel advisories to the region.
The incident took place when the unnamed Australian backpacker, known for his jovial nature and zest for adventure, unwittingly consumed lethal doses of methanol included in an illegally brewed alcoholic beverage. The lethal dose of methanol led to acute methanol poisoning, ultimately resulting in a tragic end to the individual’s life.
The case has underscored the insidious problem of methanol poisonings across reputed travel destinations in South-East Asia, particularly Laos. It seems to be emerging as a sinister underbelly of the popular backpacking and party culture within the region. Illegal home-brewed spirits, laced with methanol, are often sold to unsuspecting tourists who gravitate towards cheap drinks in the quest for a fun and economical journey.
Methanol is a toxic, colorless liquid, traditionally used in solvents, antifreeze, and biofuels. When consumed, methanol gets converted into formaldehyde, a highly toxic chemical compound that can cause severe organ damage and eventual fatality. Early symptoms of poisoning can include headache, dizziness, nausea, lack of coordination, and confusion. Other severe symptoms, such as blindness, respiratory failure and death, might follow if the poisoning is not treated immediately.
Following this tragic incident, countries such as Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand and Canada have issued travel advisories to their citizens travelling to Laos, cautioning them about the dangers of consuming locally brewed alcohol.
Safe Travel, New Zealand’s official advice for travel, issued a warning stating, there have been some deaths and illnesses because of methanol poisoning. It further emphasized that alcohol, especially cocktails and spirits in rural areas and at beach destinations in Laos, should be consumed with caution.
Canada’s travel advisory, too, offered advice that unregulated alcohol in Laos could contain methanol and posed a risk to the health of travelers.
Such cases highlight the necessity for increased vigilance among travelers. Travelers are advised to avoid cheap, homemade alcoholic drinks and to stick to the quality regulated bottled beverages available in most establishments. Being aware of the early symptoms of methanol poisoning can also facilitate quicker medical attention.
These incidents have prompted increased pressure on the Laos government to crack
