Two Australian teenagers are currently in serious condition after consuming poisoned cocktails during their backpacking trip in Thailand. The incident occurred at their hostel in Udon Thani, close to the Laos border, where they had been enjoying their travels.

The girls, both believed to be 19 years old, began feeling unwell after drinking cocktails that were reportedly laced with methanol, a dangerous substance often used as a cheaper alternative to ethanol in alcoholic beverages. One of the victims has been transported to a hospital in Bangkok, where she is reportedly in "grave" condition, according to her father.

The two were part of a larger group of around ten women traveling together, and the incident has raised alarms within the backpacking community, particularly due to warnings about methanol poisoning. A report indicated that just 25-90 milliliters of methanol could be lethal.

Officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade are providing consular assistance to the families of the affected teenagers, expressing their heartfelt concern during this distressing time.

Travelers in the area have been warned against consuming local spirits, particularly after reports emerged of others experiencing similar symptoms after being offered complimentary shots at a bar in Vang Vieng, a well-known tourist spot in Laos. Symptoms of methanol poisoning can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, blindness, and seizures.