Two Melbourne teens on life support after suspected methanol poisoning in Asia

According to 9News, two teenagers from Melbourne are in critical condition and on life support after a suspected methanol poisoning incident while traveling in Southeast Asia. It is believed that both females are teenagers and were traveling in Laos with a group.

Reportedly, they graduated last year from Mentone Girls' Grammar School and Beaumaris Secondary College, both located in bayside suburbs of Melbourne. Two other travelers have tragically died, and at least a dozen more have been hospitalized after consuming contaminated alcohol. It is understood that the two Melbourne teenagers had informed staff at the Nana Backpackers Hostel that they were feeling unwell.

The manager of Nana Backpackers Hostel told 9News, "They came to the front desk during the night shift and told my staff they needed to go to the hospital." The hostel manager also stated that police had visited the premises to check the alcohol, and that the establishment holds a happy hour every night with free vodka and whiskey. "But it's normal. Every bar, every hostel sells alcohol, they buy the same stuff."

9News understands that the two girls visited multiple bars during their time in Laos. Their parents flew to Bangkok on Friday where they are receiving hospital treatment. A local cafe where one of the girls worked was closed yesterday to allow staff to process the matter. Methanol is a colorless liquid chemical used in thousands of everyday products, including plastics, paints, cosmetics, and fuel.

According to the Methanol Institute, it is often deliberately and illegally added to alcoholic beverages as a cheap substitute for ethanol. Forensic pathologist Professor David Ranson stated that this is a common feature in illicit spirits purchased by travelers, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. "Essentially, it produces formaldehyde, which is basically the same chemical that's used to embalm bodies," he told 9News. Consuming as little as 25-90ml of methanol can be fatal.

Travelers have begun posting on social media, warning others to be aware of the issue. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has stated that they are "providing consular assistance" to the two Australians in Thailand and their families. A spokesperson said, "We are with them during this incredibly distressing time." "Due to our privacy obligations, we are unable to provide further comment."