Seven tourists, including four Australians, have been hospitalized with suspected alcohol poisoning after consuming cocktails at Warwick Resort on Fiji's Coral Coast, raising alarm among travelers and government officials alike.
The incident occurred on Saturday night as the guests, aged between 18 and 56, began displaying severe symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and neurological issues shortly after consuming drinks from the resort bar. Initially taken to Sigatoka Hospital, the severity of their conditions necessitated their transfer to Lautoka Hospital.
According to local reports, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) confirmed it was providing consular assistance to two families affected by this troubling incident. A DFAT spokesperson declined to provide specific details due to privacy obligations, stating, “Owing to our privacy obligations we are unable to provide any more comment.”
The Australian government's travel advice for Fiji has been updated to alert travelers to the potential risks associated with drink spiking and methanol poisoning, advising them to remain cautious when consuming alcoholic beverages. “We continue to advise exercise normal safety precautions,” echoed the Smart Traveller advisory, emphasizing the need for vigilance, especially amid concerns of drink tampering.
This troubling incident follows the tragic deaths of two Australian friends, Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, who lost their lives due to suspected methanol poisoning after consuming tainted alcohol during their trip to Laos just weeks prior. Their deaths have heightened concerns about the safety of alcoholic beverages consumed abroad.
Local health officials reported the investigation is currently underway to determine the source of the suspected poisoning, with health inspectors dispatched to the resort to gather information and identify any additional victims.
A guest who witnessed the incident described the situation, stating, "The people who drank the piña colada became unwell. My friend was the worst of the lot; at 5 pm we went to check on her and help her get ready for dinner. She wasn't responsive and was having severe seizures and foaming at the mouth." This harrowing account sheds light on the severity of symptoms experienced by the victims.
The authorities are taking the situation seriously, with Fiji's Ministry of Health mobilizing health inspectors to conduct thorough assessments and investigations. “Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks,” the health ministry advised, stressing the importance of caution for both tourists and residents during this festive season.
Travelers planning to visit Fiji or any other foreign destination should be particularly aware of the risks involved. Alcohol poisoning and drink spiking incidents have occurred globally, and awareness can play a pivotal role in ensuring safety.
Given the recent tragedies and incidents affecting Australians abroad, the DFAT has reinforced its message emphasizing the need for safety precautions. “Get urgent medical help if you suspect drink spiking,” they advised, reflecting the serious nature of these health threats.
While the immediate focus is on the recovery of the hospitalized tourists, this incident serves as a stark reminder of potential hidden dangers when consuming alcohol outside of one’s home environment. With the festive season around the corner, travelers are urged to take special precautions.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, as the well-being of the hospitalized tourists remains the priority. Medical updates are pending, and local health officials hope for their swift recovery. Nonetheless, the incident has already sparked significant concerns among potential travelers to the region and highlights the perils of enjoying cocktails on vacation.
Travelers heading to Fiji and similar destinations should keep informed about regional advisories and remain proactive about their safety, as illustrated by the tragic and alarming circumstances surrounding this incident.
With vigilance and awareness, we can work to prevent such incidents from occurring again, ensuring safety for all tourists and maintaining the joy of travel without the specter of poisoning looming overhead.
