New warning for Aussie travellers after suspected poisoning incident in Laos

Travellers heading to parts of South East Asia have been issued with a fresh warning following a suspected mass methanol poisoning.

The federal government's travel advisory website, Smartraveller, has updated its guidelines, urging Australians to be cautious when consuming alcohol in Laos.

The warning comes as two Melbourne teenagers remain on life support after reportedly consuming methanol while out drinking in the region last week.

READ MORE: Melbourne teens on life support didn't leave dorm for 24 hours after suspected methanol poisoning

It's understood two other travellers have died and at least a dozen people have been hospitalised.

Smartraveller has urged tourists to remain on high alert.

"Several foreign nationals, including Australians, have been victims in November 2024 of suspected cases of methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks," the advice said.

"Be alert to the potential risks particularly with spirit-based drinks including cocktails.

"For further advice on the risks around methanol poisoning as well as drink spiking."

READ MORE: Methanol explained: The deadly substance you can't see or taste

Methanol is usually found in a range of products such as paint, fuel, and cosmetics, however, it is also sometimes illegally added to alcohol as a cheap substitute to ethanol.

Drinking even a small amount can be fatal.

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