What's happened
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed the death of 19-year-old Bianca Jones from methanol poisoning after a night out in Laos. Her friend, Holly Bowles, remains hospitalized in Thailand. An American tourist has also died, raising concerns about tainted alcohol in the region.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, Prime Minister Albanese expressed deep concern, stating, "This is every parent’s very worst fear." The Independent reported that the two women were on a backpacking trip when they fell ill, with their families now by their sides. AP News confirmed the involvement of other nationalities, including an American tourist who also died, emphasizing the broader implications of methanol poisoning in the region. New Zealand's Foreign Ministry has updated travel advisories, warning travelers to be cautious about consuming alcoholic beverages, particularly in Laos.
How we got here
Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles fell ill on November 13 after consuming drinks believed to be tainted with methanol while on vacation in Laos. Their condition prompted evacuation to Thailand for treatment.
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