Counterfeit alcohol poisoning abroad and the importance of vigilance with food and water.
In recent months we have heard several reports of deaths in international travellers who have been poisoned with counterfeit alcohol. In November last year 6 young female tourists lost their lives from Methanol poisoning in Vang Vien, Laos and just this month it has been reported that 33 people have died in the capital of Turkey, Istanbul from drinking contaminated Raki, a common Turkish national drink but often produced illegally.
These incidents are not new. Methanol poisoning is often reported in young backpacker tourists who are attracted by cheap or local native drinks. In popular tourist hotspots, Methanol poisoning is not unheard of.
In recent years deaths have also been reported in other countries including Bali, India and South Africa. Sadly, these incidents will continue so it is extremely important that travellers are aware of the dangers that unfortunately hide behind cheap and free alcohol.
So, what is Methanol?
Methyl alcohol (methanol) also known as wood spirit is a toxic alcohol that is colourless and highly toxic. It is often used as fuel or solvent however it is also used to manufacture cheap illegal alcoholic drinks such as spirits and cocktails.
Why is methanol added to alcoholic beverages?
Methanol is often deliberately and illegally added to alcoholic beverages as a cheaper alternative to ethanol (which is safe). This often happens in countries where high taxes are placed on real alcohol which makes it unaffordable for many people. This has encouraged counterfeit or homemade alcohol to be produced using methanol. It increases the alcohol content and makes the drink seem stronger. Those who make it make greater profits on reduced manufacturing costs.
Methanol poisoning and spotting the signs
Methanol has a very faint smell and is tasteless so you would not know that your drink is contaminated. You only need to ingest a small amount for it to cause serious and devastating effects on the body. The first signs of poisoning include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain, breathing difficulties, tiredness, confusion and dizziness. Further symptoms appear 12 – 48 hours later and can include headaches, blurry vision, trouble looking at bright lights, tunnel vision or seeing static like that on an old tv screen or complete blindness, seizures and coma.
Any of these signs and symptoms are a red flag that this is not normal alcohol poisoning. This is a medical emergency and urgent hospital medical care must be sought immediately to prevent serious long-term complications and death.
Treatment for Methanol poisoning
Treatment for methanol poisoning is most effective if given within 10–30 hours of ingestion. It is important that seeking medical help is not delayed. Treatment includes ethanol or Fomepizole and Dialysis.
Staying safe
You are on holiday, the sun is shining, the music is playing, and you are having a great time soaking up the fun and tropical vibes but sadly poverty and crime do exist and it is easy to let your guard down. When it comes to alcohol all travellers must be super vigilant and cautious when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Ways you can protect yourself when drinking alcohol:
• Buy alcoholic beverages from licensed shops
• Buy drinks from licensed bars and reputable hotels only
• Avoid home-made alcoholic drinks such as vodka or local spirits
• Stick with sealed or bottled drinks, check labels for poor print quality or incorrect spelling
• Pre-mixed cocktails and “buckets” (cheap mixed drinks served in plastic containers) in touristy areas can be a risk
• Refuse free drinks (spirits/shots)
Be sensible. Remember that binge drinking alcohol increases risk-taking behaviours, compromises safety and increases risk of illness, accidents and injury.
Some alcoholic drinks, particularly cocktails, can contain juice, ice, or water that can be contaminated with bacteria, viruses or protozoa. This can lead to diarrhoea or even Hepatitis A infection. Dehydration is also a risk. Alcohol changes behaviour and loss of inhibitions and memory loss. This can lead to risky sexual activities but also make you extremely vulnerable to sexual assault and rape. The risk of accidents increases and include road traffic accidents and drowning. Alcohol also has a negative impact on mental health. It can affect mental clarity and mood, sleep and anxiety which may be amplified in a new country when navigating language and cultural differences.
Visit a Nomad clinic today for further travel health advice on vaccinations and medical kits.
References
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ced94znq424o
