The Federal Government has issued fresh travel warnings about the risks of alcohol consumption and drink spiking after a series of suspected poisoning cases in Laos involving two Australians and several other international tourists.
The pair of Victorian travellers, identified as 19-year-olds Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones, are reportedly in critical condition in hospitals in Thailand after apparently drinking tainted alcohol in Laos.
According to the owner of the Nana Hostel, where the Aussies had been staying in Vang Vieng, the teenagers had been out drinking at a bar before being taken to hospital after falling ill.
“When they arrived, they looked drunk, tired and were breathing heavily but they still could communicate and move around,” a doctor from Vang Vieng hospital told the ABC.
“The doctor gave her IV fluid. She later had a seizure and then went into a coma. The doctor intubated her and they were both sent to Setthatirat hospital in Vientiane.”
Meanwhile, at least two Danish women have died and at least 10 others have fallen ill after also drinking the tainted alcohol.
The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that two Danish citizens had passed away in Laos.
“For reasons of confidentiality in personal matters the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has no further comments.”
A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) spokesperson told the ABC the government was providing assistance to the two Australians and their families in Thailand.
In light of the incident, DFAT has issued new travel warnings relating to alcohol consumption in Laos.
“Several foreign nationals, including Australians, have been victims in November 2024 of suspected cases of methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks,” the updated travel advice says on DFAT’s Smartraveller website.
“Be alert to the potential risks, particularly with spirit-based drinks including cocktails.”
It adds that “Some restaurants sell food and drink containing potentially harmful drugs”.
“Travellers have been assaulted after accepting spiked food or drinks. Some have died from drug-related incidents. Never accept food or drinks from strangers. Don’t leave food or drinks unattended.”
A widespread concern
Similar travel warnings can be found for other countries in Southeast Asia. This advice includes:
Cambodia – Don’t drink homemade or unlabelled alcohol. It may contain harmful substances, particularly methanol. Get medical help if you have symptoms of methanol poisoning, including fatigue, headaches, nausea and vision problems. Travellers have been assaulted after having their drinks spiked. Stick with people you trust, don’t leave your drinks unattended in nightclubs and bars.
Vietnam – Travellers have been assaulted after having their food or drinks spiked. Pay attention when your drinks are being mixed. Get urgent medical help if you suspect drink spiking.
Malaysia – Assault, sexual assault, robbery and drink spiking can occur, including in tourist areas of Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Don’t leave your food or drinks unattended. Never accept food, drinks, cigarettes or gum from strangers.
Thailand – Sexual assault, assault, robbery and drink spiking can happen to tourists. Never leave your drink unattended. Stay with people you trust at parties, in bars, nightclubs and taxis.
Indonesia – Drinks may be spiked or mixed with toxic substances.
Philippines – Don’t leave food or drinks unattended.
