Key Takeaways:
– Seven tourists, including an American, were hospitalized in Fiji after consuming pina colada cocktails.
– One of the tourists has been discharged, while six remain in hospital, with two in intensive care
– Insiders indicate methanol poisoning as a possible cause, though denied by the Minister of Tourism.
– An investigation into the incident is being conducted by Fiji’s health ministry and police force.
– Two previous incidents involving tourist deaths due to suspected alcohol poisoning may lend gravity to this situation.
Tourist Trouble in Paradise
In an unsettling turn of events in the idyllic Pacific island nation of Fiji, seven foreign tourists were rushed to the hospital on Saturday. An evening that started with cocktails at a resort bar ended in an event that has both locals and tourists in disbelief.
Cocktail Catastrophe
After consuming pina colada cocktails at the five-star Warwick Fiji resort on the Coral Coast, approximately 45 miles west of the capital, Suva, the tourists fell ill. Representatives from Fiji’s health ministry confirmed that these individuals exhibited signs of “nausea, vomiting and neurological symptoms,” indicating a severe reaction to their drinks. This prestigious resort, popular with tourists, now finds itself at the center of this unfortunate incident.
Victim Details and Condition
The victims ranged in age from 18 to 56 and included guests from Australia and America, with the nationalities of two others not disclosed. Following their medical ordeal, the group was taken to different hospitals for treatment. A patient was discharged from Sigatoka Hospital near the hotel, according to Tourism Minister, Viliame Gavoka. The remaining six were transferred to Lautoka Hospital on the island’s west coast, with two already released and two more expected to be discharged shortly. Two patients remain in intensive care, reported to be in a stable condition.
Looking for Answers
Understandably, an air of shock and disbelief surrounds this event, especially considering Fiji’s typically safe tourism reputation. The health ministry and police force in Fiji were quick to launch an investigation to identify the exact cause behind the sudden illnesses. While awaiting results from “critical” toxicology tests, which are expected to take a few days, Tourism Minister Gavoka expressed doubt over the speculation of methanol poisoning, labeling this incident “very isolated.”
Safety First
Despite the serious circumstance, the Warwick Fiji Hotel emphasizes their commitment to the safety and well-being of their guests. They await further details and are conducting their own investigation.
Past Incidents Haunt Present Circumstances
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time that guests have fallen ill from alcohol consumption in Southeast Asia. Last month, six tourists died of suspected methanol poisoning after a night out in Laos. Although the incidents appear unrelated, the similarity in the type of poisoning might be a cause for concern.
Australian Assistance
Australia’s foreign ministry confirmed its involvement in the case, providing consensually required assistance to the two affected families, pledging to maintain privacy during the process.
The resort, health ministry and police remain committed to unravelling the mystery behind this unusual event. As they await results from ongoing investigations, the hope is to ensure this incident remains an isolated one, preserving the island’s reputation as a safe tourist haven. It’s a harsh reminder that even in paradise, safety must never be taken for granted.