Both the Swedish and Norwegian Ministries of Foreign Affairs warn travelers in Laos after cases of methanol poisoning.
The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a warning to Swedes in Laos to exercise caution when consuming alcohol. The advisory follows reports of fatal methanol poisoning linked to counterfeit spirits served in the tourist hotspot of Vang Vieng.
Five tourists, including nationals from Denmark, the UK, and the U.S., have died, while others remain hospitalized. Victims reportedly consumed drinks containing lethal methanol, a substance indistinguishable from safe alcohol.
Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also warned its citizens to be cautious.
“Norwegian travelers should generally avoid alcohol of unknown origin,” said Mathias Rongved, a ministry spokesperson. He added that no Norwegian citizens have been affected so far
The Swedish embassy stressed the danger of consuming cocktails and spirits in the region, urging travelers to avoid potentially adulterated beverages. Similar warnings have been issued by New Zealand, highlighting the recurring threat of methanol poisoning in Southeast Asia.
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