Travellers warned of methanol poisoning risks in new campaign
The UK government has launched an awareness campaign regarding the risks of methanol poisoning in counterfeit alcohol following several tragic incidents involving travelers in Southeast Asia. Officials are urging tourists to be cautious and recognize the symptoms of toxicity.
Why it matters
Methanol poisoning is a lethal risk for international travelers, and increased awareness is essential for preventing avoidable fatalities.
Image caption, Calum was travelling in South East Asia before suffering methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng, Laos
When Calum MacDonald visited a bar in Laos he later experienced "a blinding kaleidoscopic light", permanently impairing his vision, less than two days after having a drink.
The cause was methanol poisoning, and the government is now launching an awareness campaign to highlight the risks.
As thousands of holidaymakers prepare for summer travel, people are being urged, with the government's Know the Signs , external campaign, to understand the dangers and take steps to help protect themselves while abroad.
MacDonald, who is in his 20s and from Surrey, told BBC Breakfast he was unaware of the risks when travelling in 2024 and if he knew "I probably would be in a different situation today".
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