U.S. warns Americans of possible ‘tainted’ alcohol in Mexico

Andrew V. Pestano, United Press International Writer WASHINGTON (UPI) — The U.S. Department of State has warned people traveling to Mexico about possibly tainted or substandard alcohol, and to drink responsibly after the death of a Wisconsin woman.

The department on Wednesday updated its alerts and warnings page on Mexico, where travelers can find different information on embassies, local laws and visa requirements. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel earlier reported that 20-year-old Abbey Connor became sick while drinking alcohol during a Mexican vacation in January. She was ultimately pulled from a pool at an Iberostar resort near Playa del Carmen. The newspaper later received numerous reports from other travelers who said they fell ill and experienced blackouts at resorts in Cancun and Playa del Carmen — incidents also possibly linked to alcohol. “There have been allegations that consumption of tainted or substandard alcohol has resulted in illness or blacking out,” the State Department wrote in its updated web page. “If you choose to drink alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to stop and seek medical attention if you begin to feel ill.” Iberostar said it is cooperating with authorities over the possibly tainted or substandard serving of alcohol. “The safety and security of guests is utmost priority for us,” the company said in a statement. “We are deeply saddened by this incident and reiterate our deepest sympathies and condolences to the family.”