MELBOURNE, Australia — Reports have emerged that two Australian tourists are currently receiving medical treatment in Thailand for suspected severe alcohol poisoning, following their consumption of contaminated beverages while in Laos. The alarming situation was highlighted by Australian media outlets.

The two women, both 19 years old, were on a backpacking adventure in Laos when they fell ill in the popular tourist destination of Vang Vieng. This information was provided by The Age newspaper, which is based in the women’s hometown of Melbourne.

Inquiries regarding the incident were directed to the Australian Embassy in Laos; however, they referred all questions to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which has not yet provided a response regarding the matter.

Vang Vieng, located approximately two hours from the Laotian capital city of Vientiane, is a hotspot for backpackers and is famed for its vibrant party scene. The hostel where the two women were staying, Nana Backpacker Hostel, did not respond to phone calls for comments. Nonetheless, an unnamed employee confirmed to media sources that the women checked into the hostel on November 9 and went out for an evening with a group on November 11, returning home in the early hours of the morning.

Concerns arose when the tourists did not check out as scheduled on November 13, prompting the staff to investigate. Upon finding them, the women reported feeling unwell, leading the hostel to call for medical assistance.

Subsequently, they were transported to medical facilities in Thailand and are currently receiving care in hospitals located in Bangkok and Udon Thani. The mothers of both women have traveled to be with them during this challenging time.

While the precise nature of the alcohol consumed remains unclear, it is worth noting that in some disreputable bars, methanol is sometimes used as an inexpensive alternative to the safer ethanol in alcoholic drinks. This can result in serious poisoning or even fatality.

At this moment, it has not been confirmed whether other tourists were affected by the same incident, complicating the investigation surrounding the occurrence.