Travellers warned of methanol poisoning risks in new campaign
BBC News 2026-07-15 10:57:09
Context: The UK government has launched a campaign to warn travelers about the risks of methanol poisoning, a highly toxic form of alcohol that can be found in counterfeit or contaminated drinks. The campaign features personal stories of travelers who have been affected, including Calum MacDonald, who was permanently impaired after having a drink in Laos, and Margaret McKie's daughter Kirsty, who died after consuming methanol-laced alcohol in Bali. As thousands of holidaymakers prepare for travel, the government is urging people to be aware of the risks and take precautions.
Key Facts
- Calum MacDonald, a traveler from Surrey, was poisoned by methanol while visiting a bar in Vang Vieng, Laos, and experienced "a blinding kaleidoscopic light" that permanently impaired his vision.
- Methanol is a highly toxic industrial strength form of alcohol that can be found in counterfeit, illegally produced, or contaminated alcoholic drinks, and as little as 30ml can be fatal to an adult.
- Twenty-nine destinations now carry methanol poisoning warnings on UK government travel advice, including popular tourist destinations such as Indonesia, Laos, and Vietnam.
- Symptoms of methanol poisoning can include vomiting, poor judgement, loss of balance and drowsiness, as well as vision issues such as blurry vision, trouble looking at bright lights, and in some cases complete blindness.
- The UK government is partnering with influencers on social media platforms such as TikTok and YouTube to raise awareness of the risks of methanol poisoning and promote travel advice, in addition to incorporating the information into the PSHE curriculum.