In Laos, adulterated alcohol poisoning suspected in the deaths of at least four tourists

The victims are two Danes, an Australian and an American, according to their respective governments.

At least four foreign tourists have died in Vang Vieng, a Laos town popular with backpackers, government officials and media announced Thursday (November 21). The victims are two Danes, an Australian and an American, according to their respective governments, which do not specify the causes of death. But poisoning from adulterated alcohol containing methanol being suspected.

Methanol is an alcohol used in the manufacture of antifreeze or windshield washer fluid, varnish or photocopier fluid. It can be added to other alcohols to increase their potency or reduce their price, but it can cause blindness, liver damage and death.

According to British and Australian media, a group of a dozen tourists fell ill after a night out in Vang Vieng on November 12. Several were hospitalized in neighboring Thailand, including Bangkok, where a second Australian “is fighting for his life”according to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Vang Vieng, in Vientiane province in northwestern Laos, is popular among young people who enjoy backpacking trips and adventure sports. The city, once notorious for the bad behavior of young tourists at jungle parties, has recently revived its reputation as an ecotourism destination. In their travel advice, the authorities of several Western countries, however, warn their nationals about the risks of methanol poisoning when consuming alcohol in Laos.