Hidden Danger: Methanol Poisoning Threatens Tourists’ Lives
A Calgary woman is sounding the alarm about the hidden danger of methanol poisoning after a recent tragedy claimed the lives of six tourists in Laos. Ashley King knows all too well the devastating impact of this insidious threat, having suffered blindness after being poisoned in Bali in 2011.
“It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever had to go through in my life—losing my eyesight,” said King.
The vulnerability of unsuspecting travelers was highlighted this month when eight staff members of a Laos hostel were detained after six tourists from different countries died from suspected methanol poisoning. The colorless, odorless poison is often added to liquor due to its lower cost but even small amounts can be deadly.
King’s experience has left her deeply disturbed that this tragic situation continues to plague travelers worldwide. “I’m fortunate enough that I was hospitalized in New Zealand and I’m able to be here to tell my story today, but there are many other people who don’t have that option because they are not here anymore,” she said, reflecting on her own near-fatal experience.
Prompt medical attention is crucial for survival. King stresses this point, revealing that her own symptoms didn’t appear for 36 hours after consuming the tainted alcohol. They can take even longer to manifest, making it a silent threat, says pharmacist Noureen Fazal. “Up to 72 hours even, so that’s why it’s a scary one; you might think you’re feeling OK initially,” she explained, urging vigilance. Symptoms often mimic drunkenness and can include blurred vision and difficulty breathing.
The risks are escalating, prompting experts to urge caution. Travel advisories, like the one recently updated by the Canadian government, now specifically warn travelers about the possibility of tainted food and drinks in Laos. Travel expert Onanta Forbes recommends carefully checking these advisories before departing for any destination and exercising caution about what is consumed.
He advises pureeasing alcohol only in sealed bottles or cans from reputable shops.
King echoes this advice, advocating for caution. “Make sure when you purchase alcohol, it’s in a sealed bottle or cans from a reputable shop,” reiterates a precautionary principle she now holds dearest. While she chose a reputable bar in Bali, she notes that even well-known establishments can fall victim to this safety breach.
Knowing the signs and being pro-active is crucial. If the
King would have known about the dangers of methanol poisoning back in 2011, she emphasizes that her experience could have been very different. Today, she is channeling her experience into a message of awareness by creating a play and podcast to share her story.
“It’s an example of a case of methanol poisoning, how it presented in me and how I have to overcome this unbelievable change in my life because of something that shouldn’t be happening, period,” King said. Her natural positivity resonates, but also carries a strong undercurrent of determination. Since sharing her story, she has heard from families around the world impacted by this silent killer. “I want people to be able to feel safe when they travel, people to be able to enjoy a drink on vacation and not be worried about something like this happening to them or their loved one,” King said.
You can learn more about King’s play and podcast at https://www.insideouttheatre.com/static-a-party-girls-memoir
What are the early symptoms of methanol poisoning that travelers should be aware of?
## Hidden Dangers: Methanol Poisoning on the Rise
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today we’re discussing a truly chilling hidden danger facing travelers worldwide: methanol poisoning. Joining us is Ashley King, a Calgary woman who knows firsthand the devastating consequences of this insidious threat. Ashley, thank you for being here.
**Ashley King:** It’s my pleasure to be here. I hope by sharing my story, we can raise awareness about this silent killer.
**Host:** Tell our viewers about your experience.
**Ashley King:** In 2011, while traveling in Bali, I unknowingly consumed alcohol tainted with methanol. It was a terrifying ordeal. Within days, I lost my sight. I’m lucky to be alive, let alone able to speak about it today. [[1](https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20241121-four-tourists-die-after-suspected-laos-methanol-poisoning)]
**Host:** Sadly, your story isn’t unique. Just this month, six tourists in Laos tragically lost their lives due to suspected methanol poisoning.
**Ashley King:** It’s heartbreaking. Knowing what I’ve been through, it’s devastating to see this happening again and again.
**Host:** What makes methanol poisoning such a dangerous threat?
**Ashley King:** It’s invisible and odorless. Often, you have no idea you’ve consumed it until it’s too late. It can even take up to 72 hours for symptoms to appear.
**Host:** What are the warning signs people should watch out for?
**Ashley King:** Initially, it can mimic drunkenness, so people may not realize something is wrong. Blurred vision, difficulty breathing, and nausea are some of the later signs. Prompt medical attention is absolutely crucial.
**Host:** What advice do you have for travelers to protect themselves?
**Ashley King:** Be vigilant. Stick to reputable establishments, avoid locally-produced spirits with unclear origins, and trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t risk it – your life could depend on it.
**Host:** Ashley King, thank you for your courage and for sharing your story. Your message is a powerful reminder for all of us to stay aware and stay safe while traveling.
