Tourism Minister Viliame Gavoka has addressed the recent hospitalisation of seven individuals following a health incident at a resort on Coral Coast, declaring it an “extremely isolated incident.” In his statement, he reassured both local and international visitors that comprehensive investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the incident.

The affected guests were taken to Aspen Lautoka Hospital for further treatment and assessment. According to Mr. Gavoka, initial investigations show that no additional cases have been reported beyond the seven individuals involved. He emphasized that the incident was contained to a particular bar within the resort, and there were no similar occurrences reported at the resort or elsewhere in Fiji.

Mr. Gavoka praised the longstanding reputation of the resort, particularly among Australian tourists, and reassured the public that the management is fully cooperating with both the Ministry of Health and the Fiji Police Force in the ongoing investigation. The management has denied any wrongdoing, such as ingredient substitutions or drink quality alterations, ensuring the safety of their guests is a top priority.

He highlighted that Fiji remains a safe destination for tourists, with about a million visits recorded annually and no similar incidents reported this year. As the festive season approaches, Mr. Gavoka advised visitors to exercise caution regarding their food and drink choices. He expressed optimism for the recovery of the affected guests, stating they are stable, and reiterated that the government will keep the public updated as the investigation unfolds.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety in hospitality, and the quick response from authorities showcases their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of tourists. There is hope that this isolated issue will be resolved quickly, allowing Fiji’s tourism to continue thriving.

Summarized, the article outlines the minister’s assurance regarding the isolated nature of the health incident, ongoing investigations, and the commitment to tourist safety as Fiji gears up for its busy season.