Local authorities assure tourists of safety measures while investigations continue.
**Fiji Resort Bar Incident Raises Alarm Over Pina Colada Poisoning**
**Fiji Resort Bar Incident Raises Alarm Over Pina Colada Poisoning**
Seven tourists hospitalized amid fears of alcohol poisoning linked to popular cocktail.
The Warwick Hotel & Resort in Fiji has become the center of attention following a troubling incident in which seven tourists were hospitalized due to suspected poisoning after consuming pina coladas at the resort’s bar. Five of the affected individuals were tourists, with one hailing from the US and the others from Australia, aged between 18 and 56. In addition to these individuals, two foreign residents of Fiji were also reported to be suffering from similar symptoms, as per local media coverage based on statements from the health ministry.
Despite initial reports indicating that some individuals were in critical condition, officials announced on Monday that the health status of the victims has significantly improved, with plans for some to be released soon. This alarming episode comes on the heels of a tragic incident in Laos, where six tourists recently lost their lives due to suspected methanol poisoning, a fact that has understandably heightened concerns.
Fiji’s tourism chief, Brent Hill, addressed these worries in an interview, citing the importance of understanding the contextual differences between the two situations. He asserted that the incident in Fiji appears to be an isolated case. Reportedly, shortly after indulging in the rum-based cocktail at the Warwick Fiji resort located along the Coral Coast, all seven individuals displayed serious physical symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and neurological distress. They were initially treated at Sigatoka Hospital before being transferred to Lautoka Hospital for more specialized care.
Viliame Gavok, Fiji's tourism minister, emphasized that they are treating this incident with utmost seriousness, characterizing it as a singular event. The resort, the source of the cocktails, stated that they have consistently adhered to quality protocols in their drink preparation and have not knowingly altered their ingredients.
Preliminary investigations into the case are currently underway, and there have not been additional incidents reported thus far. David Sandoe, a Sydney resident, shared his distress after learning that his daughter, Tanya, and granddaughter, Georgia, were involved in the incident, although he noted that they were recovering well upon returning home.
Reports suggest that one Australian woman, aged 56, remains under medical observation, along with a 19-year-old Australian who experienced significant medical issues. In response to this incident, the Warwick Fiji hotel has confirmed that it is taking appropriate measures for a comprehensive investigation and is waiting on tests from health authorities to provide clarity.
The Fiji police have announced they are also looking into the incident’s circumstances. Consular support is being offered to two Australian families affected, while New Zealand authorities stated they had received no assistance requests linked to the poisoning episode. Australian minister Jason Clare, reflecting on the disturbing similarities to the Laos situation, highlighted the need for tourists to exercise caution, indicating a growing concern about drink spiking and methanol poisoning during their stays in Fiji.
In light of the incident, Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised travelers to remain vigilant regarding potential risks associated with alcoholic beverages in the region and seek immediate medical attention if any adverse effects are suspected.
Despite initial reports indicating that some individuals were in critical condition, officials announced on Monday that the health status of the victims has significantly improved, with plans for some to be released soon. This alarming episode comes on the heels of a tragic incident in Laos, where six tourists recently lost their lives due to suspected methanol poisoning, a fact that has understandably heightened concerns.
Fiji’s tourism chief, Brent Hill, addressed these worries in an interview, citing the importance of understanding the contextual differences between the two situations. He asserted that the incident in Fiji appears to be an isolated case. Reportedly, shortly after indulging in the rum-based cocktail at the Warwick Fiji resort located along the Coral Coast, all seven individuals displayed serious physical symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and neurological distress. They were initially treated at Sigatoka Hospital before being transferred to Lautoka Hospital for more specialized care.
Viliame Gavok, Fiji's tourism minister, emphasized that they are treating this incident with utmost seriousness, characterizing it as a singular event. The resort, the source of the cocktails, stated that they have consistently adhered to quality protocols in their drink preparation and have not knowingly altered their ingredients.
Preliminary investigations into the case are currently underway, and there have not been additional incidents reported thus far. David Sandoe, a Sydney resident, shared his distress after learning that his daughter, Tanya, and granddaughter, Georgia, were involved in the incident, although he noted that they were recovering well upon returning home.
Reports suggest that one Australian woman, aged 56, remains under medical observation, along with a 19-year-old Australian who experienced significant medical issues. In response to this incident, the Warwick Fiji hotel has confirmed that it is taking appropriate measures for a comprehensive investigation and is waiting on tests from health authorities to provide clarity.
The Fiji police have announced they are also looking into the incident’s circumstances. Consular support is being offered to two Australian families affected, while New Zealand authorities stated they had received no assistance requests linked to the poisoning episode. Australian minister Jason Clare, reflecting on the disturbing similarities to the Laos situation, highlighted the need for tourists to exercise caution, indicating a growing concern about drink spiking and methanol poisoning during their stays in Fiji.
In light of the incident, Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised travelers to remain vigilant regarding potential risks associated with alcoholic beverages in the region and seek immediate medical attention if any adverse effects are suspected.
