A second Australian tourist died after consuming alcohol believed to be adulterated, bringing the death toll to six in total, the Australian Foreign Minister announced this Friday, November 22. Once again methanol poisoning is suspected.
According to the Associated Press, this new victim is a 19-year-old girl, who died in a hospital in Thailand where she was hospitalized. In total six people died, two Australians, two Danes, one British and one American, according to their respective governments.
According to media reports, a group of a dozen tourists fell ill on November 12 after a night of partying in Vang Vieng, a city in northwestern Laos that was once famous for the bad behavior of young tourists in the jungle parties. Several were hospitalized in neighboring Thailand.
Hospitalized for more than a week.
The 19-year-old woman, whose name was Holly Bowles, had been in critical condition for more than a week. His death was confirmed by his family.
“We are very sad to announce that our daughter Holly now rests in peace,” her loved ones said in a statement sent to Australian media.
“We find comfort and solace in knowing that Holly brought so much joy and happiness to so many people,” they added.
Alcohol consumed in a hostel.
Originally from Melbourne, Holly Bowles was on holiday in Laos with a friend called Bianca Jones. Both were staying in a hostel in the town of Vang Vieng.
After drinking in the hostel bar before going out for the night, the two Australians began to feel unwell and did not leave their room on November 13 as planned. The shelter staff rushed them to the hospital. Bianca Jones’ death was announced Thursday.
Australia has called for a full and transparent investigation by the Laotian authorities to clarify the facts.
Warning from the authorities
Among the six victims, British media identified Simone White, a 28-year-old lawyer from Kent, England.
In their travel recommendations, authorities in several Western countries warn their citizens of the risk of methanol poisoning when consuming alcohol in Laos.
Methanol is an alcohol used in the manufacture of antifreeze or windshield washer fluid, varnish or photocopier fluid. It can be added to other alcohols to increase its potency or reduce its price, but it can cause blindness, liver damage and death.
Source: BFM TV
