If you’re planning a trip to Bali or other Southeast Asian destinations, you need to be aware of a deadly threat that’s been claiming the lives of tourists.
Methanol-laced drinks have been responsible for a string of deaths, including two 19-year-old Australians, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, who tragically lost their lives in Laos last month.
The Silent Killer: Methanol Poisoning
Methanol poisoning is a lesser-known risk, but it’s very real. The federal government has issued a fresh warning to Australians traveling to Bali and other Southeast Asian destinations to be vigilant about their drinks. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s Smartraveller website has updated its warning, stating that “drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances.” This is not just a cautionary tale; it’s a matter of life and death.
The Bali Connection
While Laos may not be a top destination for Australians, Bali is a different story. Over 1.37 million Australians visit Bali every year, making it one of the most popular tourist spots for Aussies. But with great popularity comes great risk. Colin Ahearn, a Perth father, has been raising awareness about the dangers of consuming alcohol in Bali through his Facebook page, Just Don’t Drink Spirits in Bali. He urges travelers to make sensible choices when it comes to drinking in Bali.
Staying Safe in Bali
So, what can you do to stay safe in Bali? Ahearn advises travelers to opt for beers, pre-mixed cocktails in single-serve cans, wines, and duty-free spirits. These drinks are safer because they’re less likely to be tampered with. And remember, Bali’s nightlife is incredible, so you don’t have to compromise on fun to stay safe.
The Laos Connection: A Factory Shutdown
In a recent development, a factory owner outside the capital of Laos has been arrested and their factory shut down after it was identified as the suspected source of the poisoning incident. The factory, which manufactures whisky and vodka, has been ordered to improve its production process before it can reopen.
The Devastating Effects of Methanol Poisoning
Professor David Ranson from the department of forensic medicine at Monash University explains that methanol poisoning can have devastating effects. “Methanol is actually a very, very nasty alcohol agent… but the problem is less with the methanol itself – which can be an intoxicant, certainly,” he says. “The problem is it gets broken down in the body, as it’s metabolised, into two very nasty chemicals; one is formaldehyde – the sort of chemical used in embalming and things like that – and then through to formic acid.” These chemicals can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, shortness of breath, chest pain, and visual disturbances. In extreme cases, methanol poisoning can even lead to blindness.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
As you plan your trip to Bali or other Southeast Asian destinations, remember to stay informed about the risks of methanol poisoning. Be vigilant about your drinks, and make sensible choices when it comes to consuming alcohol. Your life is worth it.