Methanol Poisoning: Safety Measures After British Backpacker Among Six Dead in Laos

A British backpacker and five others have died after allegedly consuming methanol-laced alcohol in Laos. The victims, including tourists from Denmark, Australia, and the United States, fell critically ill after drinking contaminated beverages in the popular backpacking town of Vang Vieng.

British Backpacker and Other Victims Identified

Simone White, a 28-year-old lawyer from Kent, UK, died after consuming tainted alcohol in Laos. Reports indicate she had been served free drinks while staying in the Vang Vieng area. Her friend Bethany Clarke, who was also affected, warned tourists in a now-deleted social media post to avoid all local spirits in the area.

The other victims include two Australian teens, Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, both 19. The pair fell ill after a night out and were later hospitalized in Thailand. Bowles died in a Bangkok hospital on Friday, while Jones succumbed to brain swelling caused by high methanol levels.

An American and two Danish nationals also died, and a New Zealander is reportedly undergoing treatment for suspected methanol poisoning.

What Is Methanol?

Methanol, a toxic, colorless liquid, is often mistaken for ethanol, the alcohol found in drinks. Used in industrial processes and products like antifreeze and fuel, methanol is highly toxic when consumed.

Once ingested, it metabolizes into formic acid, causing severe symptoms such as dizziness, abdominal pain, hallucinations, and even blindness. In severe cases, methanol poisoning can lead to coma or death.

Authorities have yet to confirm where the contaminated alcohol was served. It is common in Southeast Asia for local spirits or homemade liquors to inadvertently contain methanol due to improper distillation. In some cases, methanol is added deliberately as a cheaper substitute for ethanol.

Simone White’s friend, Bethany Clarke, reported that six individuals in their group fell ill after drinking free shots offered at a bar. Clarke recovered after receiving treatment at a private hospital, but it is unclear if she has been discharged.

Laos police have detained several individuals in connection with the case, including the manager and owner of the Nana Backpacker Hostel, where some of the victims stayed. However, no charges have been filed yet.

Tourist police in Vang Vieng and officials at the local health office have refrained from commenting, citing the need for government permission. The foreign ministries of the UK, US, and New Zealand have issued health alerts for citizens traveling in Laos.

Safety Measures for Tourists

To avoid methanol poisoning, tourists are advised to:

• Purchase alcohol only from licensed bars, hotels, and stores.
• Avoid homemade or unregulated spirits, including rice or palm liquor.
• Inspect bottle seals and labels for authenticity to avoid counterfeit products.
• Avoid drinks offered as free shots or excessively cheap.

Travelers who suspect they have consumed methanol should seek immediate medical help. Early symptoms include confusion, dizziness, and severe abdominal pain. Dialysis may be required in severe cases.

The UK’s Foreign Office and the US State Department have issued travel advisories warning about the risks of methanol poisoning in Laos. Travelers are urged to exercise caution, especially in Vang Vieng, a hotspot for backpackers.

The deaths have cast a spotlight on the dangers of unregulated alcohol in Southeast Asia, underscoring the importance of vigilance among tourists in the region.