BANGKOK — Tragedy struck in Laos as two Australian teenagers and a British woman lost their lives due to suspected methanol poisoning after consuming tainted alcohol. The incident has also claimed the lives of an American man and two Danish tourists, with their causes of death yet to be confirmed. A New Zealander has reportedly fallen ill as well.
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In response to the alarming events, the U.S. State Department issued a warning for travelers to be “alert to the potential risk of methanol poisoning.” But what exactly is methanol, and how can travelers protect themselves from such dangers?
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What Is Methanol?
Methanol, also known as wood alcohol, is one of three main types of alcohol:
- Ethanol: Found in consumer spirits, this is the only alcohol safe for human consumption.
- Isopropanol: Used in products like rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizers.
- Methanol: A byproduct of wood distillation, commonly used in fuels, antifreeze, and industrial solvents.
Methanol is highly toxic. According to the Methanol Institute, even small quantities—between 25 and 90 milliliters (0.7 to 3.0 ounces)—can be fatal if untreated. However, early medical intervention can mitigate its effects.
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Symptoms of Methanol Poisoning
Methanol poisoning manifests through a range of symptoms, including:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Decreased consciousness, coma, or seizures
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises seeking immediate medical attention if methanol poisoning is suspected.
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How Does Methanol Contaminate Drinks?
Methanol can end up in beverages through two primary routes:
- Deliberate Adulteration: Unscrupulous establishments may add methanol to mixed drinks to enhance their potency while reducing costs. This practice occurs globally, especially where high taxes or costs on legitimate spirits create a demand for cheaper alternatives.
- Improper Distillation: In home-brew operations lacking proper controls, methanol can inadvertently contaminate the product during the distillation process.
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How to Protect Yourself
While methanol is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, making it challenging to detect, there are steps travelers can take to minimize the risk:
- Purchase alcoholic beverages only from licensed liquor stores.
- Order drinks exclusively from licensed bars or hotels.
- Check bottle seals to ensure they are intact.
- Inspect labels for signs of poor print quality or spelling errors.
- Opt for beverages such as canned beer, cider, wine, pre-mixed drinks, or duty-free products, which are harder to adulterate.
- Be cautious of homemade brews and avoid free drinks or those priced significantly below market rates.
The British Foreign Office has echoed these precautions in its guidance following the Laos incidents.
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A Stark Reminder
The Laos poisonings serve as a grim reminder of the potential dangers of consuming alcohol abroad, particularly in regions where regulatory oversight may be lax. Toxicologist Alastair Hay from Britain’s University of Leeds noted the unpredictable nature of methanol poisoning, saying, “Small quantities might be fatal for some individuals, while others may survive slightly more.”
By staying vigilant and informed, travelers can better safeguard themselves from such avoidable tragedies.
