Health Alert in Fiji: Tourists Fall Ill from Suspected Rum Cocktail Poisoning

Following a suspected alcohol poisoning incident, seven tourists in Fiji were hospitalized after drinking pina coladas. Local authorities are investigating, while tourists are cautioned about the risks of drink spiking and methanol poisoning.

Seven foreign tourists in Fiji have been hospitalized due to suspected alcohol poisoning after consuming pina coladas at a luxurious resort bar, say local officials. Among those affected, five are tourists—one from the United States and four from Australia—ranging from ages 18 to 56, while the remaining two are foreign residents in Fiji.

Reports indicated that initial symptoms were severe for some of the individuals, but by Monday, local health authorities noted improvements, with many expected to be discharged soon. This alarming situation follows another recent incident in Laos, where six tourists lost their lives due to suspected methanol poisoning.

Brent Hill, Fiji’s tourism chief, commented on the incident, acknowledging the recent tragedy in Laos while asserting that the current case was different in nature. The tourists began experiencing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and neurological issues shortly after consuming their cocktails at the Warwick Fiji resort located on the Coral Coast. They were first treated at Sigatoka Hospital before being transferred to Lautoka Hospital.

Tourism Minister Viliame Gavok emphasized that this incident appears to be isolated, with the resort stating that they have not engaged in unsafe practices such as altering drink quality. Initial investigations are ongoing, and officials assure the public that no additional cases have surfaced since this incident.

Sydney resident David Sandoe shared his distress when he received news of his daughter Tanya and granddaughter Georgia being hospitalized. He remarked that they were improving, despite his initial panic over the situation.

The Warwick Fiji hotel acknowledged the seriousness of the suspected alcohol poisoning and is conducting a thorough investigation while awaiting test results from health officials to gather comprehensive information.

Fiji police have also opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event. The Australian foreign ministry confirmed that the two Australian families impacted are receiving consular assistance, while the New Zealand foreign ministry stated it had yet to field any assistance requests related to the incident. The BBC confirmed no British nationals were involved.

Amidst these worrying developments, Australian minister Jason Clare voiced concern, recalling similar incidents involving alcohol poisoning in the region. Authorities from Australia have since advised travelers to remain vigilant regarding potential risks associated with drink spiking and methanol consumption in Fiji, urging immediate medical attention if such concerns arise.