In one of the most visited tourist spots in Laos, six tourists died due to suspected methanol poisoning laos which led to renewed scrutiny of the safety and regulation of this line of business in the area. The victims, whose nationalities and identities have not been established, ingested local brews that are said to contain methanol, a toxic industrial alcohol.
The Incident
The fatal poisoning was reported to have taken place in one of the provinces’ busiest boroughs with a thriving nightlife, and street markets. Early findings indicate that the tourists had ingested so-called local brew or substandard alcoholic products. These spirits, which can be purchased at a minuscule of branded spirits, are popular among the inhabitants of Southeast Asia but are not always controlled for their quality.
Methanol, although, it has commercial uses and finds its way into the production of these spirits in the process of distillation can be mixed with it. It is important to note that while ethanol is safe for human consumption in moderate amounts, methanol has severe toxic effects on humans and animals and the initial signs include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision. It can cause symptoms as severe as seizures, coma, or even death if it has reached its worst state.
A Recurring Issue in Southeast Asia
This is not the first of such a tragedy that has occurred in this world. Several incidents of methanol poisonous ingesting are manifest in various parts of Southeast Asia, especially those countries that have not put adequate measures to check the production of substandard alcohol. Such tourists, hunting for cheap local brands that they do not realize are dangerous alcoholic drinks themselves, are more likely to consume these toxic products.
A similar occurrence in the same year 2018 in Indonesia’s Bali province resulted in several deaths. Both Thailand and Vietnam have also received bad memories due to methanol cocktails which raised concerns about low regulatory control in alcohol manufacturing and marketing in the Southeast Asia region.
Government and Community Response
The Lao government has since opened an inquiry into the matter, with health officials taking samples of the beverages believed to be responsible. Local vendors are under pressure and some found with stock have had it taken for testing.
Local and foreign visitors have been advised to buy alcoholic products only from licensed outlets and avoid branded, or substandard products. Laos associations of tourists are also arguing for consciousness-raising campaigns to inform tourists about the dangers of drinking uncontrolled alcohol.
A Wake-Up Call for Tourists
Cautious should therefore be exercised when practicing the tasting of foods that are native to regions unknown to the tourists. As much as enthusiasts may wish to taste locally brewed drinks, safety should not be a compromised issue. Methanol poisoning can be minimized if the necessary testing kits are carried along and proper attention is paid to Alcohol quality.
Bottom Line
The unfortunate event in Laos confirms that it is high time governments intensified laws regarding the production of alcohol. It also gives travelers a reality check in making sure that they put their lives first before having their thrills. Six people died it is a tragedy for their loved ones but it is also painful for Lao people who depend on tourist trials to make a living. The policies should be strengthened, but awareness should also be made to ensure that no similar events occur in the future.
