Seven individuals in Fiji, including four Australian tourists, have been hospitalized with suspected alcohol poisoning after reportedly consuming cocktails at a bar in a five-star resort.
The affected individuals range in age from 18 to 56 and include an American tourist and two foreign residents of Fiji, according to local media reports citing the health ministry.
Initially, some patients were reported to be in serious condition, but officials confirm all are now stable.
The incident occurred at the Warwick Fiji resort on the Coral Coast on Saturday night. After consuming the drinks, the victims exhibited symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and neurological issues. They were first treated at Sigatoka Hospital before being transferred to Lautoka Hospital for further care.
Among those hospitalized, a 56-year-old Australian woman remains under constant surveillance, while a 19-year-old Australian woman reportedly experienced “serious medical episodes.” Two other Australian women, aged 49 and 18, were in critical but less severe condition.
The Warwick Fiji resort released a statement emphasizing their commitment to investigating the matter thoroughly, awaiting test results from health authorities to ascertain the cause. Fiji police are also conducting an investigation.
This incident follows the recent deaths of six tourists in Laos due to suspected methanol poisoning. However, Fiji tourism chief Brent Hill stressed that the Fiji case appears to be unrelated and far less severe.
Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has advised travelers to exercise caution regarding drink spiking and methanol poisoning. Two Australian families in Fiji are receiving consular assistance, while no British or New Zealand nationals are reported to have been affected.
“There’s a real terrifying sense of déjà vu,” Australian minister Jason Clare commented, referencing the tragic Laos incident involving two Australian teenagers.
Tourists are urged to seek immediate medical help if they suspect drink spiking or alcohol-related poisoning.
