a suspect methanol poisoning The outbreak in Vang Vieng, Laos has killed four tourists. Recently, the fourth victim, 19-year-old Australian tourist Bianca Jones, died of methanol poisoning. Jones’ family confirmed his tragic death on Thursday.

Earlier in the week, the US State Department reported the death of an American man in the same city. Last week, two Danish women, aged 19 and 20, fell victim to similar circumstances. Authorities believe the victims may have consumed beverages laced with methanol, prompting a full-scale investigation into the source of the contaminated beverages.

New Zealand’s Foreign Ministry revealed that one of its citizens was also unwell due to suspected methanol poisoning. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences to Jones’ family, describing the incident as “every parent’s worst fear”.

What is methanol poisoning?

Methanol, also known as wood alcohol, is a toxic substance commonly used in industrial and household products such as antifreeze, photocopier fluid, de-icer, paint thinner, varnish, and windshield wiper fluid. . Although it is colorless and flammable like ethanol (the alcohol found in beverages), methanol is highly poisonous to humans.

Even small amounts of methanol can be fatal. According to the Methanol Institute, consumption of just 25-90 ml can be fatal. Methanol is rapidly absorbed by the intestine – within 10 minutes of ingestion – but symptoms may not appear immediately.

Symptoms and effects People may feel normal for the first 12 to 24 hours after eating. However, methanol poisoning soon triggers serious symptoms, including:

– nausea and vomiting

– severe pain in the stomach

– hyperventilation

– Difficulty in breathing

In severe cases, methanol poisoning can cause:

– Blindness (partial or complete)

– Coma

– Death

Prompt diagnosis and treatment is important, preferably within 10–30 hours of ingestion. Early medical intervention can reduce the most serious consequences, including permanent damage.

How does methanol get into beverages?

Methanol often contaminates drinks due to illegal or unregulated alcohol production. During the distillation process, methanol may form as a byproduct due to improper technique or contamination. Counterfeit or home-made alcohol is particularly vulnerable to methanol contamination, as these beverages are not subject to the same safety standards as regulated alcohol.

In some cases, unethical sellers deliberately add methanol to increase the alcohol content of drinks, putting unsuspecting consumers at risk. Methanol is odorless and tasteless, making it almost impossible for people to detect its presence in beverages without special testing.

Who is at risk?

Some groups are particularly sensitive to methanol poisoning:

– Tourists and travelers:

In areas where safety standards are inconsistent, tourists are at higher risk when consuming local or unregulated alcohol. In places like Laos, unregulated drinking, including those sold in street bars or markets, can pose significant risks.

– Consumers of illicit liquor:

People who consume illegally made alcohol are more likely to suffer from methanol poisoning, as these products are more likely to be contaminated.

– People in areas with less regulation:

Areas with limited monitoring of alcohol production or distribution are hotbeds of methanol-related incidents.

– People with limited access to medical care:

Prompt treatment is important for the management of methanol poisoning. People in remote or underserved areas may not receive the timely care needed to counteract the toxic effects of methanol.

While methanol poisoning is a serious and sometimes fatal condition, steps can be taken to reduce the risks:

– Avoid unregulated alcohol: Use only commercially available and regulated alcohol brands, especially in unfamiliar areas.

– Be careful with local beverages: When exploring new destinations, avoid home-made or locally distilled beverages, which are more likely to be unsafe.

– Inspect seals and labels: Check for intact seals and official branding on wine bottles. The packaging of counterfeit products is often of poor quality.

– Seek medical attention immediately: If methanol poisoning is suspected, consult a poison control center or medical toxicologist without delay.

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