Seven foreign nationals were hospitalized in Fiji after allegedly suffering from alcohol poisoning at a five-star resort on the Coral Coast. The incident occurred at the Warwick Fiji resort, where the individuals reportedly consumed pina coladas that led to symptoms of severe illness, local authorities confirmed.
Affected individuals and their conditions
Among the affected were five tourists—four Australians and one American—aged between 18 and 56. Additionally, two expatriates living in Fiji were also hospitalized, according to reports citing the country’s health ministry. While some were initially described as critically ill, health officials announced on Monday that their conditions had stabilized. Health officials expected the discharge of several individuals soon. This episode follows a recent tragedy in Laos, where six tourists succumbed to suspected methanol poisoning. Addressing comparisons between the two cases, Fiji tourism chief Brent Hill emphasized that the Fiji incident differs significantly. “This is a long way from what occurred in Laos,” Hill stated in an interview with RNZ.
Symptoms and medical responses
The affected individuals exhibited symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and neurological distress shortly after consuming the cocktails. The Fiji Times reported that Sigatoka Hospital initially admitted them and later transferred them to Lautoka Hospital for further treatment. One victim, Georgia Sandoe, a teenager from Sydney, experienced a seizure during the ordeal, according to her grandfather, David Sandoe. Despite the frightening experience, both Georgia and her mother, Tanya, are reportedly recovering well and preparing to return home. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) also noted that a 56-year-old Australian woman remained under medical supervision, while a 19-year-old suffered severe health episodes as a result of the suspected poisoning.
Investigations and Official Statements
Fiji’s health authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine its cause. The preliminary findings indicate that this was an isolated case, with no reports of additional cases. Tourism Minister Viliame Gavok reassured visitors that such events are exceedingly rare, adding that the resort had denied substituting ingredients or compromising the quality of beverages served.
The Warwick Fiji resort issued a statement acknowledging the incident and expressing its commitment to uncovering the facts. “We are conducting a thorough investigation while awaiting test results from health authorities,” the hotel stated.
Broader concerns about drink safety
The incident has reignited concerns about the safety of alcoholic beverages in the region, especially after the methanol poisoning deaths in Laos. Australian Minister Jason Clare noted the alarming similarity between the two cases, describing it as a “terrifying sense of déjà vu.” Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has since updated its travel advisory for Fiji, urging tourists to remain vigilant about the potential risks of drink spiking and methanol poisoning. The advisory emphasized the importance of seeking immediate medical assistance if drink spiking is suspected.
Consular Support and International Response
Two Australian families impacted by the incident are receiving consular assistance, according to the Australian foreign ministry. A spokesperson from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that no New Zealand citizens had sought assistance in connection with the poisoning. British authorities also confirmed that the poisoning did not affect any UK nationals. While Fiji remains a popular tourist destination, the incident highlights the importance of ensuring strict safety standards in hospitality venues. Fiji police and health authorities are currently conducting investigations, and they urge travellers to exercise caution.
This isolated but serious case serves as a reminder for tourists worldwide to prioritize safety, particularly when consuming alcoholic beverages in unfamiliar environments.
